- Company
- Industries
- Product areas
- Innovation
- Lehre
- Career
- News
Hydrodynamic bearings are indispensable in many industries and can offer numerous advantages over other types of bearings. For more information, read our blog on application examples.
Hydrodynamic bearings allow two surfaces to slide against each other to enable movement. Hydrodynamic bearings, in particular, are characterized by high load capacity and low wear. A thin film of oil between the surfaces minimizes friction.
This guide demonstrates how to optimally maintain these low-maintenance hydrodynamic bearings for improved performance and extended service life.
![[Translate to English:] Gleitlager](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/7/csm_Plain_Bearing_1_01edc975b4.png)
Although hydrodynamic bearings are low-maintenance and extremely durable, it may be necessary to replace them after prolonged use to ensure optimal performance. By taking careful steps and using the right tools, you can ensure that the surrounding components of your machine remain undamaged. With appropriate lifting devices and disassembly tools, you can safely and controlledly remove the old bearing, facilitating smooth maintenance. A careful disassembly process ensures that the subsequent installation of the new bearing proceeds without issues.
Once the old bearing has been removed, thoroughly clean the bearing seat. Inspect it for wear or damage. If necessary, minor repairs or refinishing can be carried out to create the best conditions for the new bearing.
A poorly aligned bearing can lead to increased wear, unwanted vibrations, and ultimately costly downtime. Therefore, take the time to carefully position the bearing.
Be sure to use the appropriate alignment tools that will help you accurately adjust the bearing. These tools not only ensure perfect alignment but also make the installation process easier and safer.
With a precise installation, you lay the foundation for smooth, long-term, and low-maintenance operation of your machine.
To ensure that the new bearing is optimally protected during startup, you should carefully lubricate the sliding surfaces with clean, high-quality oil.
This lubrication reduces friction and protects against premature wear, helping to keep your hydrodynamic bearing low-maintenance.
The replacement intervals for these slide bearings vary depending on the operating conditions. Under optimal conditions, they are low-maintenance and can function reliably for many years, sometimes even decades.
However, there are factors that can shorten their lifespan:
Load: If the bearing is subjected to loads greater than specified, it can wear out more quickly.
Environmental conditions: High temperatures, dirt or moisture can also significantly reduce the bearing's lifespan.
In general, these hydrodynamic bearings should be checked for condition every 5 to 10 years. If there are signs of wear, they need to be replaced.
Our engineers can assist you in selecting the right bearing material, tailored flexibly to your specific requirements. In this way, we support the optimal operation of your hydrodynamic bearings.
The lifespan of a bearing always depends on the operating conditions. Under optimal conditions, hydrodynamic low-maintenance bearings can function for 15 to 20 years or even longer. However, factors such as the operating environment, loads, temperatures and contamination can affect the actual lifespan.
To monitor bearing lifespan and take timely action, various sensors and methods can be employed:
Temperature Sensors: These sensors continuously monitor the bearing temperature. An increase in temperature can be an early warning sign of issues such as insufficient lubrication.
Oil Analysis Sensors: These sensors check the quality and viscosity of the lubricating oil. Changes in the oil, such as contamination or aging, can indicate a deteriorating bearing condition.
In modern industrial plants, these sensors are often integrated as standard. They enable predictive maintenance, where bearings are replaced only when necessary. This approach is significantly more efficient and reduces maintenance costs.
Hydrodynamic bearings are an extremely reliable and durable solution for many industrial applications. Despite their low-maintenance properties, they benefit from regular monitoring and care to ensure optimal performance:
At Miba, we offer comprehensive expertise in hydrodynamic, low-maintenance bearings. With years of experience, we support you through competent consulting, quick support, and a reliable spare parts service. You can also find more information about our plain bearings on our axial and radial plain bearings product pages.
Our flexible solutions and maintenance services help keep your machines running at peak performance, operate optimally and sustainably. Trust our experience for smooth operation.
Ready to maximize the lifespan of your hydrodynamic bearings and make your machines more efficient? Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation. Together, we will find the optimal solution.
