Motor bearing failure (noise, heat, or vibration at motor)

Belts / drive

All symptoms

Bearing wear on the motor (as distinct from airend bearings) causing noise, heat, or eventual seizure.

1

Lubrication interval exceeded or wrong grease used

CheckReview PM records for last grease service and grease type/quantity against OEM spec.
FixRe-grease per OEM interval/quantity with the specified grease type — do not over-grease.
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2

Bearing currents from VFD operation (shaft voltage/EDM pitting)

Rotary screw
CheckCheck for an insulated bearing or shaft grounding ring on VFD-fed motors; look for fluting marks on bearing races if removed.
FixInstall shaft grounding ring or insulated bearing per motor/VFD manufacturer guidance.
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3

Belt over-tensioned, overloading motor bearings

CheckCheck belt tension against OEM spec (deflection method or tension gauge).
FixRe-tension to spec, not simply as tight as possible.
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4

Contamination or moisture ingress into bearing

CheckInspect grease condition for water/dirt contamination upon removal.
FixReplace bearing and seals; address contamination source (washdown, humidity, seal failure).
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5

Normal end-of-life wear

CheckCompare bearing running hours to typical L10 life expectations for the application; vibration analysis trend.
FixReplace bearings proactively per vibration/thermal trend rather than waiting for failure.
ToolsVibration meter · IR thermometer
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Safety

Lockout/tagout before opening enclosures. Verify zero energy. Bleed system pressure before opening any pneumatic connection.