Over the past twelve years, ESR Technology has provided expert witnessing, condition assessment, and monitoring services to a major international ship operator. Following a premature failure of a critical bearing, ESR’s NCT team were brought in to find and solve the problem.
Figure 1: Overview showing the failed bearing.
Through a range of metallurgical techniques, backed up by engineering calculations, and the use of our in-house bearing modelling software, our NCT engineers carried out a root cause analysis to determine the cause of the failure. Surface replication and scanning electron microscopy allowed the team to image the surface in minute detail, revealing the tell-tale beach marks indicating rolling contact fatigue spalls.
A thorough metallographic examination revealed the source of these fatigue spalls. By measuring the initiating features, the team were able to use numerical modelling and calculations to determine the magnitude and nature of loading on the bearing and show that the bearings had been consistently overloaded.
Figure 2: Scanning electron image of a fatigue spall showing beach marks.
As well as identifying the root cause of the failure, our engineers carry out regular ongoing condition assessments on the bearing systems. By using forensic engineering techniques to analyse debris in the bearing oil filters, the team can catch developing defects before failure occurs, allowing for planned maintenance.
Over the years, the National Centre of Tribology has maintained a strong relationship with the client and consulted with them on a variety of engineering problems, including providing independent expert opinions on a range of technical issues.
To find out more about how ESR’s NCT team can support your maritime and offshore activities with our expertise in root cause analysis, corrosion, and condition monitoring, get in touch at info@esrtechnology.com or head over to the NCT webpage – https://esrtechnology.com/nct/