How to Replace a Seal on a Double Sealed Ball Bearing?
Proper maintenance of double sealed ball bearings is essential for machinery longevity. In this blog post, we will guide you through replacing the seals on your double sealed ball bearings to ensure they function optimally.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Safety First: Ensure all equipment is turned off and disconnected from any power source before starting the replacement process.
- Disassembly: Depending on your equipment, you may need to remove some components to access the ball bearing. Carefully disassemble the machinery to expose the bearing. We recommend taking a picture of your assembled equipment for easy reassembly.
- Seal Removal: Use the appropriate tool to carefully remove the old seal. You can use a seal pick, bearing puller, seal drift, or simply just a flat head screwdriver. In some situations, a combination of heat and solvent can be used to soften the seal material, making it easier to remove. You can also cool the plastic to shrink the seal if a solvent is not available. Take your time and avoid damaging the bearing or its housing during this step.
- Clean the Bearing: Once the old seal is removed, clean the bearing and the surrounding area using solvent and a clean cloth. This step is crucial to remove any debris or old lubricant that might have accumulated.
- Inspect the Bearing: Examine the bearing for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. If you notice any issues, it is a good time to consider replacing the entire bearing.
- Install the New Seal: Carefully place the new seal in the same position where the old one was removed. Position the new seal over the bearing’s shaft or housing, ensuring it is aligned correctly. The seal should fit snugly without any gaps or misalignment. Apply even pressure around the edge of the seal. Work your way around the seal in a circular motion, tapping it little by little. Avoid using excessive force, as this could damage the seal or the bearing.
- Reassemble the Equipment: Put the machinery back together, following the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure all components are properly aligned and tightened.
- Lubricate the Bearing: Apply the appropriate bearing grease to ensure proper lubrication. The amount of grease required will depend on the bearing’s size and specifications, so consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
How Do I Know If the Seal was Installed Incorrectly?
Once the seal is installed, it is good practice before reassembly to conduct a leak test. Apply a low-pressure air source (or a vacuum) to the sealed area and listen for any hissing or air leakage sounds. If you detect leaks, it may indicate an improper seal installation that needs correction.
Before putting the equipment back into service, manually rotate any applicable parts to ensure smooth movement and proper sealing.
By following these steps, you can effectively and efficiently replace a seal on a double sealed ball bearing. This will help prolong the life of your equipment and prevent potential damage.
If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at (616) 669-0600 or email us at Sales@mdsofmi.com for assistance to ensure the job is done correctly.
Need a new ball bearing or one with a double seal? Browse our selection of double sealed ball bearings on our online store and ensure top-notch performance for your machinery.
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If you just need a replacement seal, feel free to reach out to us on our Support Page. Let us help. If you do not see what you need in our online store, we can search our full inventory or provide a custom solution for you.
