Bearing mounting is a critical step in many industrial and engineering applications, so ensuring proper installation without damaging the bearing, shaft, or housing is essential for long-term performance and durability. This is where induction heaters come in, revolutionizing the way bearings are mounted. But how? And what are the benefits of using induction heaters for bearing mounting? Read on to discover why using induction heating for bearing mounting has become the recommended method and is better than traditional techniques.
1. Fast Heating Times
Induction heating significantly reduces the time required for bearing installation. Unlike oil baths or ovens that can take 30 minutes or more to heat bearings, induction heaters can reach the desired temperature within minutes. This is because induction heaters use electromagnetic induction to generate heat directly within the bearing’s metal structure, rather than relying on external heat sources that take longer to transfer heat.
2. Even and Automatic Heating
Not only do induction heaters quickly heat bearings, they use precise and uniform heating which makes the inner ring of the bearing evenly heated without overheating other components. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the bearing, reducing the risk of premature wear or failure. Modern induction heaters also feature an automatic reheat mode, which means when the temperature you set the bearing to reach is achieved, the heater automatically turns off. The temperature sensor continues to monitor the temperature, and will automatically turn back on if the bearing drops below a certain temperature.
3. Temperature Control
As previously mentioned, the temperature probe makes sure the bearing maintains a consistent and optimal temperature throughout the heating process. However, the temperature probe is also essential because it prevents your bearing from exceeding the temperature limit you set, which could lead to overheating the bearing. Bearings can become damaged and change in diameter or hardness if they are exposed to temperatures higher than 257 °F for extended periods, as this can change the bearing’s metallurgical properties, reduce their hardness, and affect its load-carrying capacity.
4. Safest Option
There are many ways to mount a bearing, including cold mounting, oil bath heating, and shrink fitting. However, using induction heaters for bearing mounting is by far the safest way to achieve a secure and interference-free fit without mechanical stress. When the induction heater is in use, the only component of the process that heats up is the bearing itself. This means users can come into contact with any other part of the machine and not risk burns or accidental injuries from hot surfaces. Using an induction heater to mount bearings eliminates the need for open flames and oil baths, which means workers aren’t exposed to harmful substances such as hot oils, flammable gases, or toxic fumes from combustion-based heating methods. This helps organisations align with their safety standards and reduce workplace hazards, improving compliance with health and safety regulations.
5. Damage-Free Installation
Traditional mounting methods like pressing or hammering can introduce mechanical stress, potentially damaging bearings or shafts. Bearings are a critical investment and essential to the operation, performance, and longevity of machinery, so you don’t want to risk premature failure due to improper installation. Using an induction heater for bearing mounting removes the need to use forceful methods to fit the bearing onto the shaft, which reduces the chances of your bearing becoming cracked or misaligned.
6. Versatile
Induction heaters can be used for a wide range of bearing sizes and types, from small precision bearings in CNC machines to large industrial bearings in turbines. Many induction heater models offer adjustable settings and interchangeable parts, making them adaptable to various applications in all industries. This versatility reduces the need for multiple tools, saving costs and space for your organisation. For example, the TIH030M/110V - SKF Small Induction Bearing Heater features state-of-the-art temperature control and efficient heating technology, but is small and compact, so it is easy to transport and ideal for on-site maintenance applications where space is limited.
7. Environmentally Friendly
Traditional heating techniques such as oil baths or gas-powered systems can use fossil fuels or dangerous chemicals to generate heat, leading to pollution and excessive energy consumption. As the world shifts toward more sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, businesses are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt greener manufacturing practices. Induction heaters use electromagnetic energy to generate heat directly within the bearing, resulting in reduced carbon emissions, and a cleaner working environment. Additionally, because induction heating is a highly efficient process with minimal heat loss, it reduces overall energy waste.
8. Financial Savings
While the initial investment in an induction heater may seem high, the long-term cost savings are huge. The use of induction heat technology gives you complete control of the temperature you want the bearing to reach, which prevents overheating and extends the bearing’s lifespan by ensuring proper installation. Using this method to mount bearings efficiently also reduces the downtime of your machinery, meaning your operations run with minimal interruptions, leading to increased productivity and lower maintenance costs. You also don’t need to spend money on the resources needed for other heating methods, such as oil or gas.
What temperature does the bearing need to be heated to in order to be mounted?
The bearing should be heated to roughly 230 °F. However, this can vary depending on the bearing type and size. Typically, you want around 160 °F difference between the bearing and the shaft. This is enough to enable proper installation.
Explore Modern Induction Heaters at Quality Bearings Online
As you can see from the benefits, using an induction heater is the best method to safely, efficiently, and precisely install bearings without causing damage or unnecessary downtime. At Quality Bearings Online, we supply industry-leading induction heaters from quality manufacturer SKF, ensuring you get reliable and high-performance equipment for your bearing mounting needs.
Get in touch with us today to speak to one of our experts who can help you choose the most suitable induction heater for your specific application, whether you're working with small precision bearings or large industrial components.
*All images used in this blog are owned by SKF Group.