During the maintenance of friction bearings, what is essential to prolong their lifespan?

Regularly checking for misalignment is essential in prolonging the lifespan of friction bearings because misalignment can lead to uneven wear and excessive stress on the bearing surfaces. When a bearing is misaligned, it does not rotate smoothly, which can create higher friction and heat, potentially leading to premature failure. Proper alignment ensures that the load is evenly distributed across the bearing surfaces, which minimizes wear and enhances the efficiency of the machinery.

In contrast, constant exposure to heat can further degrade lubricants and wear bearings faster. Minimizing lubrication intervals is detrimental, as insufficient lubrication can lead to increased friction and heat generation. Using lower quality lubricants can also adversely affect friction bearings, as inadequate lubrication can fail to provide sufficient protection against wear and corrosion. Thus, maintaining proper alignment is crucial for ensuring that friction bearings operate effectively and last longer.