SKF
Relubrication (Spherical Plain Bearings)
For steel-on-steel spherical plain bearings, relubrication is a vital maintenance task. SKF defines relubrication intervals based on load, sliding velocity, and environmental contamination. The interval shortens in wet, dusty, or vibratory conditions. Grease nipples in the housing or bearing ring facilitate regreasing without disassembly. The correct procedure involves purging old, contaminated grease with fresh grease until clean lubricant emerges from the seals, flushing out wear particles and moisture. SKF provides interval calculation guidance and recommends lithium complex greases with EP performance.
Send an Enquiry
We'll get back to you on WhatsApp.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
Interval Calculation Based on
Load, sliding velocity, contamination level, and duty cycle.
Purge Until Clean
Inject new grease until all old, contaminated grease exits the seals.
Centralised Greasing Compatibility
Bearings can be connected to single‑line or progressive systems.
EP Grease Selection
Extreme‑pressure additives protect steel‑on‑steel surfaces during shock.
Frequency Multiplier for Wet Environments
Relubrication interval halved for water‑exposed bearings.
Monitoring for Under‑Greasing
High friction, noise, or heat indicates insufficient lubrication.
How to Purge a Spherical Plain Bearing Correctly
Connect the grease gun to the fitting, and pump slowly while the bearing is articulated through a few strokes. This motion helps distribute fresh grease across the full sliding surface. Stop when clean grease appears uniformly from all seal lips. Over‑greasing wastes lubricant but does not damage the bearing; under‑greasing is the real danger.
Remote Grease Lines for Inaccessible Bearings
On ship hatch covers or bridge bearings, manual access is impossible. SKF provides grease lines from the bearing to a remote‑mounted bulkhead nipple, allowing safe, regular relubrication from a maintenance platform. These lines are fabricated from high‑pressure hose and protected from crushing and corrosion.