Grease lubricated open bearings require frequent lubrication.

Grease lubricated open bearings require frequent lubrication.

• A. Always
• B. Sometimes
• C. True
• D. Never

Answer: (C)

Open, grease-lubricated bearings rely on a film of grease to keep the bearing surfaces apart. Because there’s no sealed reservoir to retain lubricant under all conditions, grease can escape or become contaminated from dust and moisture, and it can break down with heat and shear. To maintain a protective film, carry away heat, and flush out contaminants, these bearings must be re-lubricated at regular intervals. The exact frequency depends on service conditions, but under typical operation it is more frequent than for sealed or oil-lubricated bearings. Not lubricating adequately leads to increased wear, overheating, and premature failure, so following the manufacturer’s lubrication schedule and using the correct grease is essential.

Open, grease-lubricated bearings rely on a film of grease to keep the bearing surfaces apart. Because there’s no sealed reservoir to retain lubricant under all conditions, grease can escape or become contaminated from dust and moisture, and it can break down with heat and shear. To maintain a protective film, carry away heat, and flush out contaminants, these bearings must be re-lubricated at regular intervals. The exact frequency depends on service conditions, but under typical operation it is more frequent than for sealed or oil-lubricated bearings. Not lubricating adequately leads to increased wear, overheating, and premature failure, so following the manufacturer’s lubrication schedule and using the correct grease is essential.