NSK solves repeat failures of machine tool spindle bearings

NSK has resolved the issue of repeated spindle bearing failures on four CNC machining
centres at the plant of a leading automotive industry supplier. Having identified the root cause
of why the spindle bearings were failing every two weeks, the facility is now enjoying savings
of €32,880 per annum.B022018-N-Image1.jpeg – NSK Super Precision Angular Contact Ball
Bearings offer long-life, high-precision and low-noise characteristics to suit high-speed
machine tool spindles
To investigate the underlying reason behind the failures, NSK was requested to perform
a survey of the complete application and maintenance process. An NSK expert observed the
mounting methods undertaken by the maintenance department and discovered that the main
problem was incorrect handling of the Super Precision Angular Contact Ball Bearings.
The correct installation of bearings is paramount to the optimum running and ongoing
care of industrial machinery. Here, the right training and use of the appropriate tools is
particularly essential. With this in mind, NSK carried out a comprehensive training
programme for the company’s maintenance staff, which included mounting and dismounting
techniques, and advice on refilling bearing grease. Once the training was complete no further
issues were reported, with bearing life duly extended from two weeks to six months, which in
turn led to significant cost savings.
Factoring in previous bearing failures every two weeks (across four machines), as well
as the cost of replacements and machining downtime, savings of €32,880 per annum are being
achieved as a result of just two bearings changes per year following the NSK investigation
and recourse.
Super Precision Angular Contact Ball Bearings offer long-life thanks to their use of
extra pure and advanced material patented by NSK. Furthermore, low-noise characteristics
make them ideal for quiet-running, high-speed spindles found on many modern machine
tools. A variety of cage and seal options are available.