How to lubricate linear bearings?

‍

How to lubricate linear bearings?

Linear bearings are used in many industries as sliding components, which have advantages such as high precision, low cost, and low friction resistance. However, if linear bearings are not used or maintained properly, they are prone to failure. The common failure modes are: wear failure, contact fatigue failure, and fracture failure.

Unlike the other two failure modes, wear failure can be delayed and the service life of linear bearings can be extended through lubrication.

There are two common lubrication media for linear bearings: grease lubrication and oil lubrication. Their operating methods are also different.

When using grease lubrication, it is necessary to first remove the anti-corrosion oil injected into the linear bearing with kerosene or organic solvent, and then add grease lubrication after air drying;

If oil lubrication is used, there is no need to remove the anti-corrosion oil first. It can be directly lubricated with oil.

In addition, there are some differences in lubrication operation methods for different linear bearings:

1. Drip lubrication: For linear bearings that require a quantitative supply of lubricating oil, to prevent excessive oil from exacerbating temperature rise.

2. Oil bath lubrication: a common lubrication method for low and medium speed linear bearings.

3. Circulating oil lubrication: suitable for linear bearing components with high rotational speed.

4. Spray lubrication: high-speed, high-temperature linear bearing parts are lubricated in this way.

5. Spray lubrication: suitable for high-speed linear bearings.

Images and texts for learning reference

‍