One of the most common reasons for bearing failure in agricultural equipment is moisture ingression. This occurs because the equipment is typically used for a limited period of time each season, therefore, it can remain idle for up to nine months at a time.

In agriculture, the leading cause of bearing failure is improper or inadequate lubrication and contamination ingression. For applications such as tillers, planters, harvesters and other equipment where bearings are routinely subjected to (or submerged in) dirt, sand and other contaminants, proper lubrication is critical to bearing service life.

Agricultural equipment endures extremely dirty environments. Metallic sleeve bearings -- commonly used in pivoting (oscillating) applications – require external lubrication with grease or oil to function properly and efficiently. However, a film of oil on the shaft acts like a magnet for environmental dirt and other contaminants.

When it comes to dirt getting into bearings, the agriculture industry tops the chart. Whether you're plowing, harvesting, tilling or discing, the bearings in these applications experience some of the worst contamination possible. We all know that when the work begins, uptime is crucial, and nothing increases cost more than a piece of farm machinery that’s been sidelined during the peak season. 

The eccentric cam locking mechanism is prevalent in the agricultural industry for applications that range from harvesting to processing various products. Our Rex 3000 and Link-Belt spherical roller bearing lines offer the eccentric cam lock style through the Y and W inner ring callouts.

In unit handling applications, you want a concentric shaft locking device that will endure the rigors of everyday operation. For the best, look to Centrik-Lok® by Rexnord, which outperformed other leading products in side-by-side comparisons.

Improper installation is the most common cause of bearings failure for unit handling equipment. Issues vary depending on the bearing type. Learn proper installation techniques for various bearings, and what can occur if you don’t follow proper installation procedures.

Fixed tapered, adapter-mounted collar roller bearings can be tricky. If manufacturer-approved mounting procedures are not followed, it can lead to bearing failure. Learn how to properly mount the Rex 6000 Series Shurlok and Link-Belt 600 to ensure proper operation and maximum bearing life.

Whether it’s training or troubleshooting, preventative maintenance or problem solving, Rexnord is always here to help. With various communications methods, our experienced, qualified application engineers can walk you through your latest and most urgent challenges.

Maybe you’re in the throes of your peak season. Or maybe that spike in volume came out of nowhere. Regardless, as you look out over your facility, all you see are products and packages zipping through the facility like clockwork. And they have to, because your business is built on getting things where they need to go when they need to get there.