Operating game

An operating clearance in rolling bearings refers to the intentional, minimum axial or radial clearance that exists between the rolling elements and the raceways in the bearing. This clearance is maintained during operation of the bearing to ensure proper function.

The operating clearance allows the rolling elements to move freely and adapt to changes in load, temperature and lubrication while the bearing is in operation. It helps to reduce friction and wear and can also help to minimize noise and vibration.

The correct operating clearance is important to ensure optimum performance and service life of the bearing. It is usually specified by the bearing manufacturer and can vary depending on the application and the loads involved. To put it bluntly, you don't want to have a clearance that is so loose that everything rattles or so tight that the bearing stops rotating. If the operating clearance is too large, the rolling element guidance is too small, there is little load transmission and the rolling elements may vibrate. In the worst case, not all rolling elements will bear the load. If the operating clearance is too small, the rolling element pressure is too high, resulting in greatly increased friction, temperature and thus wear. In the worst case, jamming can occur.

When mounting spherical roller bearings on adapter sleeves, the internal clearance of the spherical roller bearing is measured and noted using a feeler gauge, for example, before mounting. The lock nut is then fitted to the adapter sleeve and the value is reduced by an amount specified by the manufacturer. Now the bearing clearance is checked again using a feeler gauge.

The bearing clearance refers to the free space or play between the various components of a rolling bearing before installation. After installation, in operation so to speak, it is called operating clearance.

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• Bore diameter