Bearings producing sound during operation is a very normal phenomenon. However, have you ever been confused: are some sounds emitted normally by mechanical operation, or are they signals of impending failure? In fact, not all sounds represent abnormalities; many are just natural manifestations of bearing operation.

First, the most common normal sound is the 'raceway sound'. This is the basic sound emitted by all rolling bearings, originating from the minor processing ripples on the raceway and rolling element surfaces. Even with excellent manufacturing processes, microscopic undulations are unavoidable, leading to periodic changes in elastic contact force, thereby causing high-frequency vibration. This sound is random and stable, with a frequency that generally does not change with rotational speed, but the sound pressure level increases with speed. Therefore, appropriate preload, high-viscosity lubrication, or enhancing bearing housing rigidity can help reduce its loudness.

Another sound that may occur during low-speed operation of medium to large bearings is the 'roller drop sound'. When the bearing is subjected only to radial load and has a large clearance, the rolling elements in the non-load zone, due to insufficient centrifugal force, will lightly collide with the cage or inner ring, producing intermittent sounds. This sound is more common in grease lubrication and usually disappears when speed is increased or oil lubrication is used.

Third, some bearings emit a sharp 'squealing sound' at specific rotational speeds, especially in cylindrical roller bearings with grease lubrication and large radial clearance. This is because when the rolling elements enter the load zone, the narrowing passage induces high-frequency vibration. Although the squeal is piercing, it usually does not affect bearing life and can be mitigated by adjusting clearance, increasing preload, or using higher consistency grease.

Another type is the 'roller pass vibration sound', which is more common in large bearings with large clearance under low-speed and heavy-load conditions. At this time, the shaft center periodically moves slightly with the rolling elements, generating vibration and noise. This situation generally has small amplitude and can be improved by reducing radial clearance or applying preload.

However, not all sounds are harmless to the equipment and easily resolved. If the sound is accompanied by regular impact pulses or irregular 'squeaking' noises, it likely indicates that the raceway is already damaged, foreign matter has entered, or lubrication is poor. Such abnormal sounds are often accompanied by increased vibration or rising temperature and must be inspected and addressed promptly.

In summary, learning to judge the state of bearings from different sounds can not only avoid unnecessary replacements and downtime but also capture fault signals in advance, buying valuable time for the stable operation of equipment.

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