Due to variations in SKF imported bearing structures, fits, and operating conditions, the inner ring typically requires an interference fit, as shaft rotation is common. For cylindrical bore bearings, press-fitting using a press or thermal mounting methods are predominantly employed. In cases involving tapered bores, direct mounting onto tapered shafts or installation via sleeves is utilised. Detailed specifications are provided by the SKF imported bearing manufacturer.

(1) Press-fitting Method

Press-fitting is widely employed for small bearings. Insert shims beneath the inner ring and apply steady pressure from the press until the inner ring contacts the shaft shoulder tightly. Placing shims under the outer ring during inner ring installation causes indentations and damage to the raceway, and is therefore strictly prohibited.

During operation, it is advisable to lubricate the mating surfaces beforehand. Should hammering be unavoidable, always use a block on the inner ring. This practice frequently causes bearing damage and should therefore be restricted to cases with minimal interference fits. It must not be used for large interference fits or medium to large bearings.

For non-separable bearings such as deep groove ball bearings, where both inner and outer rings require interference fitting, use shims and press both rings simultaneously using a screw jack or hydraulic press. The outer ring of self-aligning ball bearings is prone to tilting; even without interference fit, installation with shims is recommended. For separable bearings like cylindrical roller bearings or tapered roller bearings, the inner and outer rings may be mounted separately onto the shaft and housing. When combining the pre-mounted inner and outer rings, the critical step is to align them steadily to prevent misalignment of their centres. Forcing them together may cause damage to the raceway surfaces.

(2) Hot-fitting Methods

Large bearings require substantial force for pressing, making installation challenging. Consequently, the hot-fitting method—where bearings are heated in oil to expand before mounting onto shafts—is widely employed. This approach avoids subjecting bearings to undue stress and enables rapid completion of the task.

The heating temperature for SKF imported bearings should be determined based on bearing dimensions and the required interference fit. Key considerations for hot mounting are as follows:

(1) Do not heat the bearing above 120°C;

(2) To prevent direct contact with the bottom of the oil bath, place the bearing on a metal mesh platform or suspend it;

(3) Heat the bearing to 20–30°C above the required temperature to prevent the inner ring cooling during installation, which could hinder fitting;

(4) After installation, the bearing will contract in width as it cools. Secure it using shaft nuts or other suitable methods to prevent gaps forming between the inner ring and bearing shoulder.

When fitting into housings, most installations employ a clearance fit with an interference fit for the outer ring. This is typically achieved using a press or, alternatively, a cold shrink fit after cooling. Where dry ice is used as a coolant for cold shrink fitting, moisture from the air may condense on the surface of the SKF imported bearing. Therefore, appropriate rust prevention measures are required.