Spherical roller bearings are designed to handle heavy radial loads and moderate axial loads in both directions. They are commonly used in demanding industrial applications such as mining, construction, material handling, and paper mills. To ensure optimal performance and extended service life, proper lubrication of spherical roller bearings is absolutely essential.

In this article, we’ll discuss how spherical roller bearings are lubricated, what types of lubricants are commonly used, and some best practices for maintaining lubrication in real-world applications.

Why Lubrication Matters

Lubrication plays a critical role in reducing friction and wear between the rolling elements and raceways. It also helps dissipate heat, prevent corrosion, and reduce the risk of premature bearing failure.

Without proper lubrication, even high-quality spherical roller bearings can wear out quickly or seize completely — leading to costly downtime and equipment damage.

Types of Lubrication for Spherical Roller Bearings

There are two main types of lubrication typically used in spherical roller bearings: grease lubrication and oil lubrication.

1. Grease Lubrication

Grease is the most common lubricant used for spherical roller bearings, especially in applications where contamination is a concern or where maintenance access is limited.

Advantages of grease lubrication:

Easier to apply and retain within the bearing housing

Provides a sealing effect to prevent entry of dust and moisture

Requires less frequent relubrication in low-speed, clean environments

Common greases used:

Lithium-based greases

Polyurea greases

Synthetic greases for high-temperature applications

Always choose a grease with the appropriate viscosity, thickener type, and additives that match the operating conditions of the bearing.

2. Oil Lubrication

Oil lubrication is preferred in high-speed or high-temperature applications where grease might not offer sufficient cooling or flow.

Methods of oil lubrication include:

Oil bath

Oil mist

Oil circulation systems

Air-oil lubrication

Oil also allows continuous removal of contaminants and heat, which is crucial in heavy-duty applications like cement plants and steel mills.

Choosing the Right Lubrication Method

When selecting a lubrication method for spherical roller bearings, consider the following factors:

Operating speed

Load and vibration levels

Ambient temperature

Contamination risks

Maintenance intervals

Refer to the bearing manufacturer’s specifications or consult with a lubrication engineer to ensure optimal selection.

Best Practices for Bearing Lubrication

To maximize the life of your spherical roller bearings:

Use high-quality lubricants from trusted suppliers

Follow recommended relubrication intervals

Avoid mixing incompatible lubricants

Monitor operating temperatures and vibration levels

Use automatic lubrication systems for continuous lubrication in critical areas

Final Thoughts

Understanding how spherical roller bearings are lubricated is key to maintaining efficient, reliable machinery. Whether using grease or oil, the right lubrication not only protects your bearings but also reduces costs and extends operational uptime.

If you’re unsure which lubrication method is best for your application, speak with our bearing specialist or reach out to us. Investing in proper lubrication is investing in the long-term performance of your equipment.