Dismounting Bearings
When dismounting bearings, it is of paramount importance that full care must be taken not to damage other machine components, such as the housing of the shaft. Such damage can result in compromising the machine’s efficiency and lifetime. Conversely, the correct mounting and dismounting of bearings such as rolling element bearings can save time and dramatically increase the life of bearings. It can also maximise the availability of critical plant and machinery by avoiding costly breakdowns.
Dismounting bearings can be a dangerous and often demanding task. The key is to ensure that the appropriate tools and equipment for the mounting and dismounting of the bearings are on hand for the engineer at either the assembly, or the installation phase. Selecting the correct dismounting tool is an important step. Such tools may include mounting paste, heating rings, induction-heating devices and thermal mounting and dismounting tools. Using the correct tools ensures that bearings are mounted and removed easily and quickly “without causing damage to the bearings or surrounding equipment; and also in a safe and reliable way.” Source – www.theengineer.co.uk
As well as deciding on the correct dismounting tool, the method is also of huge importance to ensure that the risk of personal injuries is reduced to the lowest possible level. Single applications may require “mechanical, heat or hydraulic dismounting methods to allow safe, correct and efficient bearing dismounting”.
Mechanical dismounting begins by selecting the right puller for the job, along with its maximum withdrawal capacity. Puller overload can result in breakage so getting this stage correct is vital. Dismounting using heat is a quick and easy method. The inner rings of cylindrical roller bearings generally have a tight interference fit and require a high force to dismount. Using a puller can cause damage to the shaft and ring though, which can be hazardous so it has to be managed carefully. Finally, dismounting bearings using hydraulic techniques is often the preferred method for dismounting larger components. This technique allows a substantial force to be applied during the dismounting process.
If not performed correctly, incorrect dismounting can lead to bearing damage and failure. This is only one such cause of such an eventuality, with contamination, corrosion and incorrect bearing lubrication amongst the others.Dismounting remains a vital procedure in the long lasting control of bearings and for optimum safety, it is important that you understand the tools and methods available to use. Ensure you make the right choices, for the right situation.