Electric motors rarely fail from one moment to the next.
Before that, they typically:
- start to overheat
- become noisier
- show signs of vibration
Then suddenly, they stop.
Experience shows that in a significant number of cases, these failures do not originate from the electrical side, but from the bearing.
The real issue: improper lubrication
In many cases, the motor receives lubrication, yet develops bearing failure within a short time.
This is often due to:
- over-lubrication on one side
- under-lubrication on the other
- improper timing
More than half of electric motor failures are related to bearings, and within these, lubrication issues are one of the leading causes.
Why is manual greasing problematic?
In practice, manual lubrication is not consistent:
- different amounts are applied each time
- some lubrication points are missed
- it is not performed at regular intervals
- in case of over-lubrication, the bearing does not cool but churns the grease
This leads to faster overheating and accelerated lubricant degradation.
Solution: continuous, controlled lubrication
The advantage of automatic lubrication systems is that they deliver lubricant evenly over time.
Simalube automatic lubricators:
- provide continuous lubrication
- operate with adjustable dispensing periods
- lubricate even during operation
- reduce the risk of missed lubrication points
This is especially important in continuous operation and in hard-to-reach locations.
Installation is also a critical factor
The service life of a bearing does not depend on lubrication alone.
Common issues include:
- impact-based (hammer) mounting
- improper fit
- damage to the shaft or housing
These problems often only appear later in the form of noise or overheating.
Simatool installation tools and Simatherm induction heaters help ensure controlled, impact-free mounting.
When lubrication is not based on guesswork
Proper lubrication settings should take the following into account:
- rotational speed
- operating hours
- bearing type and size
- installation position
The Simatec Calculation Pro application helps determine the correct settings, reducing the risk of over- or under-lubrication.
Where does automatic lubrication pay off?
It is particularly recommended in the following cases:
- electric motors operating continuously
- hard-to-reach lubrication points
- applications with high downtime costs
- operations with multiple identical motors
In many cases, electric motor failures can be prevented with proper lubrication and professional installation.
If you are not sure about:
- choosing the right lubrication system
- the optimal settings
- or the best solution for your application
feel free to contact us
Our experts will help you select and implement the most suitable solution.
FAQ – Electric Motor Maintenance and Bearing Lubrication
How can you identify over-lubrication or under-lubrication?
Under-lubrication typically results in noisier operation and faster wear. In case of over-lubrication, the bearing may overheat because the grease is churned, leading to faster lubricant degradation.
When should you switch to automatic lubrication for electric motors?
Automatic lubrication is especially beneficial in continuous operation, at hard-to-reach lubrication points, or where downtime costs are high.
Can automatic lubrication be used on older electric motors?
Yes, in most cases, as long as the bearing is still in good condition and the lubrication point is accessible. If the bearing is already damaged, it should be repaired or replaced first.
What is the benefit of Simatec Calculation Pro?
It helps determine the correct lubrication interval and lubricant type based on operating conditions, reducing the risk of over- or under-lubrication.
What installation errors can damage a bearing?
Common issues include impact-based mounting, improper fit, or damage to the shaft or housing, which can lead to early bearing failure.
When is lubrication alone not enough to solve the problem?
If the bearing is already damaged or incorrectly installed, improving lubrication alone will not resolve the issue. Mechanical problems must be addressed first.
