If rolling bearings are to operate reliably they must be adequately lubricated to prevent direct metal-to-metal contact between the rolling elements, raceways and cages. The lubricant also inhibits wear and protects the bearing surfaces against corrosion. The choice of a suitable lubricant and method of lubrication for each individual bearing application is therefore important, as is correct maintenance.

A wide selection of greases and oils is available for the lubrication of rolling bearings and there are also solid lubricants, e.g. for extreme temperature conditions. The actual choice of a lubricant depends primarily on the operating conditions, i.e. the temperature range and speeds as well as the influence of the surroundings.

The most favourable operating temperatures will be obtained when the minimum amount of lubricant needed for reliable bearing lubrication is provided. However, when the lubricant has additional functions, such as sealing or the removal of heat, additional amounts of lubricant may be required.

The lubricant in a bearing arrangement gradually loses its lubricating properties as a result of mechanical work, ageing and the build-up of contamination. It is therefore necessary for grease to be replenished or renewed and for oil to be filtered and changed at regular intervals.

The information and recommendations in this section relate to bearings without integral seals or shields. SKF bearings and bearing units with integral seals and shields on both sides are supplied greased. Information about the greases used by SKF as standard for these products can be found in the relevant product sections together with a brief description of the performance data.

The service life of the grease in sealed bearings most often exceeds bearing life so that, with some exceptions, no provision is made for the relubrication of these bearings.

Note
Differences in the lubricating properties of seemingly identical lubricants - particularly grease - produced at different locations can exist. Therefore, SKF cannot accept liability for any lubricant or its performance. The user is therefore advised to specify lubricant properties in detail so as to obtain the most suitable lubricant for the application.