Hello everyone! Recently, we've been discussing the Motor & Compressors that are stored in our warehouse and put into service when a machine in the plant breaks down. These machines have been sitting in the warehouse for over 5 years, and I suspect that the bearings may not be in good shape (possibly non-spherical balls). As a result, when we start up these machines, they tend to vibrate excessively and sometimes break down within a few days. Therefore, we are looking to establish a protocol for replacing bearings in machines before they are installed in the plant, especially for machines that have been stored fully assembled for a certain number of years. How long do you think we can rely on the bearings in a stored Motor, Compressor, or Pump to be in good condition? In my opinion, for larger machines, I believe no more than 2 years is a safe timeframe. What are your thoughts on this? Thank you!
Prior to installing a new machine, it is not advisable to replace bearings. With proper maintenance, bearings can have a lifespan of over 5 years. One way to ensure the longevity of bearings while the machine is in storage is to periodically manually rotate it to prevent any potential damage from occurring and to prevent vapor condensation buildup. This simple step can help protect all areas of the bearings and ensure optimal performance when the machine is put into operation.
I completely agree with your concern about bearing degradation over time, especially in machines that have been left idle for years. This can indeed lead to machine failure and production downtime, costing you a lot more in the end. However, the lifespan of bearings can vary greatly depending on storage conditions - factors like humidity, temperature, and exposure to dirt/dust can all affect their longevity. Instead of sticking to a rigid timeline such as 2 years, it might be worthwhile to introduce regular, scheduled inspections of stored machines. By doing so, you can assess the condition of bearings before installation, which will also help in maintaining optimal machine performance.
I agree that the storage duration is a critical factor in determining the condition of the bearings considering the constant exposure to humidity, temperature fluctuations and possibly dust. However, I also think the type, make and the quality of the bearings play a significant role too. Some high-quality bearings are designed to be robust and can hold up well even after a lengthy storage period. But as a rule of thumb, your estimate of 2 years seems reasonable for larger machines, although regular periodic checks could still help to extend this timeframe. It might also be worth exploring storage conditions and protective measures to prolong the lifespan of these machines while in storage.
I agree with your line of thinking regarding the replacement of bearings in machines that have been sitting idle for a prolonged period. Bearings are prone to deterioration if not rotating, especially in high-humidity environments where rust can form. Besides climate, factors such as lubrication type and the sealing method used can also influence their shelf life. While two years sounds reasonable for larger machines, smaller machines might get by with slightly longer durations. In the end, periodic inspections and testing would provide the most accurate assessment. I suggest implementing a regular checking protocol especially for those machines lying idle for more than a year, to ensure efficient operation and prevent sudden breakdowns.
That's a great point! I think your two-year timeframe is definitely on the cautious side but probably wise considering how sensitive bearings can be to environmental factors and deterioration over time. In addition to age, I’d also consider the storage conditions—things like humidity and temperature can really impact their condition. It might also be worth looking into a regular inspection schedule for those stored units, so you can catch any potential issues early before they lead to major breakdowns.
That's a really important consideration! I agree that after a couple of years, the risk of bearings degrading increases significantly, especially if they're not being rotated regularly. Vibration issues can definitely escalate into bigger problems, not to mention safety hazards. I think implementing a pre-installation inspection protocol is a smart move. It might also be worth looking into whether you can periodically rotate or lubricate stored machines, as that could potentially extend the life of the bearings. Have you thought about establishing some kind of schedule for regular maintenance checks on those machines?
✅ Work Order Management
✅ Asset Tracking
✅ Preventive Maintenance
✅ Inspection Report
We have received your information. We will share Schedule Demo details on your Mail Id.
Answer: - The lifespan of stored machine bearings can vary depending on factors such as storage conditions, machine size, and type. However, it is generally recommended to replace bearings in machines that have been stored fully assembled for over 2 years to prevent issues like excessive vibration and breakdowns.
Answer: - Signs that stored machine bearings may need replacement include excessive vibration when the machine is started up, irregular noises during operation, and frequent breakdowns shortly after installation. These can indicate that the bearings have deteriorated due to prolonged storage.
Answer: - Establishing a protocol for replacing bearings in stored machines before installation can help prevent operational issues. It is advisable to inspect the condition of bearings in machines that have been stored for an extended period, such as over 2 years, and proactively replace them to ensure smooth operation and prevent unexpected breakdowns in the plant.
Join hundreds of satisfied customers who have transformed their maintenance processes.
Sign up today and start optimizing your workflow.