1. Inadequate Bearing Lubrication

When a bearing operates under oil – starved conditions, adhesive wear is likely to occur. This phenomenon degrades the working surface. The tears resulting from adhesive wear can easily enter the bearing cage, subjecting it to abnormal loads. In severe cases, this may lead to cage breakage.

2. Bearing Creep

Creep typically pertains to the sliding of the bearing ring. When there is insufficient interference on the mating surface, the load point shifts circumferentially due to sliding. This causes the ring to deviate from its relative position with respect to the axis or the housing.

3. Abnormal Loads on the Bearing Cage

Improper installation, such as misalignment or excessive interference, reduces the clearance. This increases friction and heat generation, softening the surface. Premature abnormal spalling may occur. As the spalling area expands, and if foreign objects enter the cage pocket holes, it can block the cage’s movement and generate additional loads. This continuous cycle of wear and tear can eventually cause the cage to fracture.

4. Material Defects in the Bearing Cage

Cracks, large non – homogeneous metal inclusions, shrinkage cavities, bubbles, riveting flaws (such as missing rivets, loose rivets, or gaps in the bonded surfaces of two – piece cages), and excessive riveting can all potentially lead to cage fracture.

5. Ingress of Hard Foreign Bodies into the Bearing

The entry of hard foreign materials or other impurities can significantly accelerate the wear of the bearing cage.

6. Cage Breakage

The main factors contributing to cage breakage include rapid cage vibration, excessive wear, and blockage by foreign objects.

7. Cage Wear

Cage wear can be attributed to poor lubrication or the presence of abrasive particles.

8. Blockage by Raceway Debris

Flaky materials or hard particles from the raceway can get trapped between the cage and the roller, impeding the roller’s rotation around its own axis.

9. Bearing Vibration

When a bearing vibrates, the resulting inertial forces can be substantial enough to cause fatigue cracks. Over time, these cracks will lead to cage fracture.

10. Excessive Bearing Rotational Speed

If a bearing rotates at a speed higher than the designed speed for the cage, the inertia within the cage may cause it to break.