How to Tell If Your Roller Bearings Are Worn?

June 29, 2025

Roller bearings play a crucial role in the smooth operation of many machines. When they fail, it can lead to serious damage to other components or even the final product. Similar to ball bearings, roller bearings are designed to support loads and reduce friction. Over time, normal wear and tear can occur, sometimes requiring repairs or replacements. In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes and types of roller bearing damage, helping you better understand how to extend the life of your equipment.

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What Are the Most Common Types of Roller Bearing Damage?

Every year, around 10 billion bearings are produced globally, with the majority lasting longer than the machines they're installed in. Only a small percentage are replaced before failure as part of preventive maintenance. A mere 0.5% of bearings are replaced due to severe damage or total failure. Here are the most frequent causes of roller bearing damage:

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Common Types of Roller Bearing Damage (1)

  • Deformations: Roller bearings can deform due to excessive heat or improper installation. This can cause metal flow, leading to rib face deformation in the bearing cones. As a result, rollers may skew, and the bearing might lock up entirely.
  • Fatigue Spalling: This occurs when the surface of the bearing material begins to flake off. Inclusion spalling is caused by oxides or hard particles within the steel, while point surface spalling happens when debris or raised surfaces exceed the thickness of the lubrication film. In both cases, metal starts to break away from the raceway.
  • Handling Damage: Rough handling during transport or installation can lead to dents or nicks on the bearing. These are often visible as raised metal spots from contact with roller edges.
  • Cage Damage: Bearings that are dropped or installed incorrectly can suffer cage damage. This can cause the rollers to misalign, bind, or become obstructed during operation.
  • Preload/Overload Damage: Excessive preload or overloading can damage the bearing in various ways. Tight preloads can cause the cone bore to contract, while heavy loads can create high temperatures and lubricant breakdown, leading to full race width fatigue spalling.

When Should You Replace Your Roller Bearing?

Determining the right time to replace a roller bearing can be challenging, as the time between initial damage and complete failure varies widely. High-speed bearings can fail in seconds, while low-speed bearings may take months to degrade. Early detection is key—replacing a damaged bearing before it fails helps prevent costly machine downtime and further component damage. Monitoring for early signs such as unusual noise, vibration, or increased temperature can help identify issues early. Addressing these symptoms promptly can save time, money, and potential system failures. Regular inspections during scheduled maintenance are essential for catching problems before they escalate.

Why Choose Emerson Bearing for Your Roller Bearing Needs?

Emerson Bearing has been a trusted name in the bearing industry for over 50 years. We specialize in supplying high-quality roller and ball bearings from leading brands like BOWER, FAG, FERSA, IKO, INA, NACHI, NSK, NTN, RBC, TORRINGTON, URB, and ZNL. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes us a preferred choice for businesses worldwide. We understand that every application is unique, and selecting the right bearing can be complex. Our team of experts provides personalized guidance to ensure you get the best solution for your specific needs. Whether you're looking for standard or custom bearings, we work closely with you to deliver products and services that meet your expectations. With two companies—Emerson Bearing and Action Bearing—we serve customers across the globe. If you’re looking for reliable, high-performance bearings, reach out to us today and let us help you find the perfect solution.

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