Thrust roller bearings are designed to primarily bear axial loads on shafts, as well as combined radial and axial loads, provided the radial load does not exceed 55% of the axial load. Compared to other thrust roller bearings, this type exhibits a lower coefficient of friction, higher rotational speeds, and self-aligning capabilities.

1. Selection and control of thrust roller bearing housing tolerances: After pressing the thrust roller bearing onto the shaft, it should rotate freely without any sense of binding. If noticeable resistance occurs, this indicates the shaft dimensions are too large, necessitating a reduction in tolerances. Should a distinct ‘squeaking’ sensation be felt when manually rotating the bearing after installation, this may indicate excessive shaft tolerances or poor shaft roundness. Therefore, when controlling shaft and bearing housing tolerances, roundness must also be rigorously managed. Many domestic manufacturers focus solely on dimensional tolerances without addressing roundness.

2. Thrust roller bearing assembly methodology: As these bearings are high-precision components, improper assembly readily damages raceways, leading to bearing failure. Specialised tools must be used for installation; striking the bearing is prohibited. When pressing onto the shaft, force must be applied only to the smaller ring during initial insertion and only to the larger ring during final seating. Pneumatic or hydraulic press-fitting is required, with both upper and lower dies maintained perfectly horizontal. Any tilt will cause damage to the raceway due to uneven stress distribution, resulting in bearing noise.

3. Preventing foreign object ingress: During dynamic balancing of the rotor with thrust roller bearings installed, metal shavings generated during balancing can readily enter the bearing interior. Therefore, dynamic balancing must be performed prior to bearing installation. Some manufacturers apply oil or grease to the thrust roller bearing housing for lubrication during assembly to facilitate fitting. However, operators often struggle to control the quantity accurately. Excessive oil or grease accumulation within the housing can migrate into the bearing interior along the shaft during rotation. The thrust roller bearing housing should not be coated with oil or grease. If coating is unavoidable, ensure no residue accumulates within the bearing housing.

4. Prevention of Paint Rust: Paint rust typically occurs in sealed motors. During assembly, the motor operates smoothly, but after storage in the warehouse for some time, abnormal noise becomes pronounced. Upon disassembly, severe rusting of the thrust roller bearings is observed. Previously, many manufacturers attributed this solely to thrust roller bearing defects. Through our persistent advocacy, motor manufacturers now recognise the primary cause lies with the insulating varnish. This issue arises when acidic substances volatilised from the varnish, under specific temperature and humidity conditions, form corrosive compounds. These corrode the bearing raceways, leading to bearing failure. The solution requires using high-quality insulating varnish and ensuring adequate ventilation after drying before assembly.