How to heat and install the bearing？

During the bearing installation process, it is often necessary to heat the bearing to make it easier to install on the shaft.This article describes the methods and precautions on how to heat mount bearings

Mar 15,2024

How to heat and install the bearing？

Bearing installation is an essential link in machinery manufacturing and maintenance. During the bearing installation process, it is often necessary to heat the bearing to make it easier to install it on the shaft.

The main purpose of heating the bearing is to enlarge the diameter of the inner ring so that it can be more easily slid onto the shaft. This method avoids damage to the shaft or bearings, and at the same time ensures tight contact between the bearing and the shaft, thereby increasing the life of the bearing.

Methods of heating bearings

1. Induction heater

Induction heaters are the most commonly used bearing heating tool. It uses electromagnetic waves to transfer energy into the bearing, causing it to heat up. The advantage of an induction heater is that it heats the bearing quickly and evenly, bringing it to the desired temperature without damaging the bearing.

When using an induction heater, it is necessary to place the bearing at the center of the heater to ensure that the bearing is fully exposed to electromagnetic waves. Then, according to the size and material of the bearing, set the appropriate heating time and temperature. Usually, the heating temperature of the bearing is 80°C-100°C, and it should be adjusted according to the bearing material and size.

2. Oven

Instead of an induction heater, you can also use an oven to heat the bearings. When using an oven, place the bearings on aluminum foil and place them in an oven preheated to the desired temperature. Then, according to the size and material of the bearing, set the appropriate heating time and temperature. Unlike induction heaters, using an oven requires longer heating times and longer cooling times.

However, using an oven requires care not to overheat the bearings, which can cause damage to the bearings. Also, when using an oven, safety precautions need to be taken and ensure that all relevant safety regulations are followed.

3. Oil bath

An oil bath is another way to heat the bearings. When using an oil bath, the bearing needs to be placed in oil that has been preheated to the desired temperature. Then, keep the bearing in the oil for a while until it is fully heated. Unlike induction heaters and ovens, oil baths require longer heating times and longer cooling times.

However, using an oil bath also requires care not to overheat the bearings and ensuring that all relevant safety regulations are followed.

 

Precautions for Heated Bearings

When heating bearings, the following points need to be paid attention to:

Temperature control: It is necessary to set an appropriate heating temperature according to the size and material of the bearing, and ensure that the control temperature is within a reasonable range.

Time control: It is necessary to set an appropriate heating time according to the size and material of the bearing, and ensure that the control time is within a reasonable range.

Safety measures: When using induction heaters, ovens or oil baths, safety precautions need to be taken and ensure that all relevant safety regulations are followed.

Lubrication: Bearings need to be lubricated before they are installed on the shaft. Insufficient lubrication or excessive lubrication will affect the service life of the bearing.

 

The above are the methods and precautions on how to heat and install bearings. Proper bearing heat treatment can avoid damage to the shaft or bearing and ensure tight contact between the bearing and the shaft, thereby improving the life of the bearing.