Why does the sealing performance of the crossed roller bearing decrease?

1. Aging or Wear of Sealing Materials
Sealing materials are prone to aging or wear when exposed to harsh environments such as high temperatures, humidity, and dust, which can reduce their effectiveness. Common sealing materials like rubber or fluororubber generally offer good durability, but prolonged exposure to extreme conditions may cause hardening, cracking, and other issues that directly impact sealing performance.

Suggestion: Manufacturers can enhance material selection based on specific working conditions. For example, high-temperature-resistant materials work better in heat-intensive environments, while highly wear-resistant materials are preferable for heavy-pollution conditions. This can significantly extend the life of the seal.

2. Incompatibility Between Lubricant and Seal Material
The type of lubricant used can have a direct impact on sealing performance. Some lubricants may cause swelling, softening, or dissolving of seal materials, which degrades the sealing function. For instance, certain mineral oils or synthetic oils can react with sealing materials. Incompatibility between lubricants and seal materials not only reduces sealing effectiveness but also accelerates aging.

Suggestion: Manufacturers should consider lubricant compatibility when designing the bearings, and recommend suitable lubricants to customers during maintenance to avoid any incompatibility issues.

3. Inadequate Seal Structure Design
The design of the sealing structure in crossed roller bearings directly impacts its sealing effectiveness. If the contact between the seal and the bearing is inadequately designed, or if the lip of the seal is not well-aligned, the seal may not be able to effectively block dust and moisture. Moreover, some designs may restrict lubricant flow due to compact structures, leading to increased internal friction and accelerated seal wear.

Suggestion: Optimizing the seal structure, such as adding multiple layers of sealing or improving lip conformity, can effectively improve sealing performance. Though this may increase production costs slightly, it has a significant positive impact on the bearing’s overall sealing performance.

4. Improper Installation and Maintenance
If the seal is damaged due to improper handling during installation or subsequent maintenance, sealing performance can drop noticeably. Misalignment or uneven pressure during installation may deform or even tear the seal. Additionally, debris accumulation or surface damage on the seal during use, if not cleaned or replaced in a timely manner, can also impair its sealing effectiveness.

Suggestion: Handle seals carefully during installation to ensure correct placement. Regular inspections and surface cleaning are also key to maintaining sealing performance, as is the timely replacement of aging or damaged seals.

5. Changes in Operating Conditions for Cross-Roller Bearings
Cross-roller bearings are often used in applications requiring high loads and precision. If bearings are subjected to prolonged overload, high-speed operation, or extreme temperature variations, these factors can place additional stress on seals, shortening their lifespan. Especially under high vibration or impact loads, seals are more likely to crack and lose their sealing capability.

Suggestion: Consider specific working conditions carefully when selecting bearings to ensure they operate within their intended design range. Regular monitoring and reasonable setting of operating conditions can help prevent issues caused by environmental changes that may affect the seal.