Mounting
During handling, the rings and roller complement of spherical roller bearings may be axially displaced from their normal position. This is especially likely where the bearings are mounted with the shaft or housing in the vertical position:
- The roller complement, together with the inner or outer ring, will move downward and result in no more clearance.
- When the bearing rings expand or contract as a result of an interference fit, preload is likely to result.
Therefore, wherever possible:
- Mount spherical roller bearings with the shaft or housing in the horizontal position.
-
Rotate the inner or outer ring to align the rollers during mounting.
Where this is not feasible, use a bearing handling tool or other device to keep the bearing components arranged centrally.
For additional information about these mounting methods, refer to Mounting bearings with a tapered bore, or the SKF bearing maintenance handbook.