Vibrating Screen Bearing Failures: Causes and Prevention
Why screen and feeder bearings fail and how to reduce it.
Vibrating screens and feeders shake their own bearings, so they fail sooner than bearings on ordinary machines when something is wrong. Here are the common reasons and how to reduce them.
1. Wrong bearing type or clearance
Screens usually specify heavy-duty spherical roller bearings with increased clearance and a strong cage. Fitting a standard bearing of the same size can overheat or break up. Use the type, series and clearance the screen maker lists.
2. Too little or too much grease
A starved bearing wears and an overfilled one runs hot. Follow the maker's quantity and interval, and use the specified grease. Purge old grease when the interval is due.
3. Dust and water getting in
Screens run in dusty, wet conditions. Check the seals and breathers at every service and replace them when worn.
4. Unbalanced or loose exciter parts
Loose counterweights or uneven wear in the exciter increase the load on the bearings. Check and tighten them to the maker's torque at set intervals.
5. Poor fitting
Shaft or housing wear, rough handling and incorrect fits shorten life. Measure the shaft and housing before fitting a new bearing and replace them if they are worn.
Key Takeaways
- Use the type and clearance the screen maker specifies
- Grease by the schedule, not by guess
- Keep dust and water out
- Check exciter weights and fits at each service
This article is general guidance. For a recommendation for your own application, contact our engineering team. Stone crusher and screen bearings →