How Rotating a Motors Shaft Can Extend Its Lifespan

Question:

I have come across information suggesting that regularly rotating a stored motor's shaft around ten times every few months can extend the motor's lifespan once it is in use. Are you familiar with this tip and do you practice it? Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

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In addition to motor shafts, it is important to examine the shafts of other rotating equipment as well. This includes rotating standby equipment that may be installed on site. In certain facilities, these shafts are stored in nitrogen-enclosed boxes equipped with pressure gauges for monitoring. For more information on this topic, make sure to use the search function on this forum.

Rotate the shafts of your bearings monthly for optimal performance. Simply spin them for approximately thirty seconds without counting the revolutions. Afterward, position the shaft 90 degrees from its previous location and note the keyway position, such as at 9:00, on a tag attached to the motor along with the date. This practice is essential for maintaining rolling element bearings. Thank you, Jeff.

When it comes to the rotor's movement, the key factor to consider is that it shifts from its initial location, typically by 90 degrees, with each cycle. It is critical to mark the angular position of the shaft and document its position over time. It is not recommended to repeatedly turn the rotor and leave it at its original position without moving it. This can lead to potential issues with accuracy and performance.

Thank you to everyone for their support!

Yes, I've heard of this tip too and began practicing it a couple of years ago with my garage-kept motors. Regularly rotating the shaft can help to distribute the lubricant inside, which prevents it from settling in one area. This reduces the risk of parts seizing or rusting which certainly contributes to extending its lifespan. It's a small maintenance task that can reap long-term benefits. It's definitely worth the few minutes it takes every few months.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Why is rotating a motor's shaft beneficial for extending its lifespan?

Answer: - Rotating a motor's shaft helps prevent shaft warping and corrosion by distributing lubrication and ensuring even wear on bearings, ultimately increasing the motor's longevity.

FAQ: 2. How often should I rotate the motor's shaft to see the desired benefits?

Answer: - It is recommended to rotate the motor's shaft around ten times every few months, especially when the motor is stored for an extended period, to maintain its optimal condition.

FAQ: 3. Does rotating a motor's shaft have any impact on its performance?

Answer: - While rotating the motor's shaft may not directly improve its performance, it can contribute to preventing potential issues such as shaft seizing or bearing damage, which could affect the motor's overall efficiency.

FAQ: 4. Are there any specific guidelines to follow when rotating a motor's shaft?

Answer: - When rotating a motor's shaft, ensure that the rotation is smooth and gentle to avoid causing any unnecessary stress or damage to the motor components. Additionally, use appropriate tools if necessary to rotate the shaft effectively.

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