Inner Race Bearing Damage - Examples of spectrum readings
What was the problem?
Machine Roll Bearing Issue
Equipment Used
- Enpac 1200A Data Collector, 100mV/g Accelerometer and Probe
- PL31b Data Collector, 100mV/g Accelerometer and Magnet
- Emonitor Odyssey Deluxe Software
Readings Taken
- All the readings that were taken on the bearing during this report
period had a spectrum maximum frequency of 30Kcpm (500Hz). 800 lines of
resolution were used for each spectrum and the readings were taken using
peak signal detection.
- The trend and spectrum readings that were taken from the roll front side
bearing on the 14th October 2005 (Fig 1), showed signs of ball pass inner race
(BPIR) damage, this reading was taken with our Enpac 1200a data collector.
- Another further set of readings were taken on the 26th October 2005 (Fig 2),
these readings were a lot higher than the initial readings that were taken.
The PL31b data collector was used to take these readings and a magnet was used
rather than the normal probe.
- A different data collector was used for the 2nd set of readings as this data
collector belonged to the customer.
- A third set of readings was taken on the 1st November 2005 (Fig 3) these readings
were taken using the Enpac 1200a data collector. The trend reading has now reduced to
the same level as the first reading. Again, inner race defect frequencies are present
in the spectrum.
- On the 7th November 2005 another set of readings on the roll taken with the Enpac
1200a data collector after the bearing had been changed (Fig 4), it can now be seen that
the inner race damage that was present in the spectrum has gone.
Fig. 1 (click on picture for larger view)

Fig. 2 (click on picture for larger view)

Fig. 3 (click on picture for larger view)

Fig. 4 (click on picture for larger view)

Conclusion
From the first reading that was taken with the Enpac 1200a data collector, it was evident that there was
a problem with the bearing. Once we new that the problem was with the inner race of the bearing we decided
to take extra readings. The customer was advised of our findings and made arrangements for the bearing to be
removed on the earliest available shut. When the bearing was removed it was found to have a split on the inner
race of the bearing.
Estimated Cost Savings
Calculations based on the following
- Downtime is calculated at £3,000 per hour (approx.)
- Cost of new fabric is £15,000 (approx)
- New roll journal cost £5,000 (approx)
- New bearing cost £500
- It would take approximately 8-hours to change the roll and the fabric.
Total Savings £44,500
Author: Philip Robinson
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