Water will cause corrosion on the metal surface. For lubricating oil and grease, water will cause the oxidation and deterioration of the base oil in the oil, and the oxidation products will contact with water again, and generate acidic substances to corrode the metal. In addition, water causes oil oxidation metamorphism, resulting in sludge, affecting the viscosity and normal flow of oil, further causing lubrication problems. So the whole problem starts with a small amount of water, and it has a ripple effect, and it accumulates into a big damage.

1. Hydrogen induced cracking

Also known as hydrogen embrittlement or hydrogen damage, it can cause metal damage, but it has not been widely paid attention to in bearing manufacturing and maintenance.

In such cases, water may be part of the source of hydrogen, which is also produced by electrolysis and corrosion, and water promotes electrolysis and corrosion, to which high-strength steels are particularly susceptible. In addition, the additives added in lubricating oil and grease contain sulfur (extreme pressure additives, anti-wear agents, etc.), and the mineral oil itself also contains certain sulfur impurities, which will promote the corrosion and cracking of metals. Both humid atmosphere and free water may cause hydrogen embrittlement of metals.

2. The corrosion

Water will cause metal rust and corrosion. After corrosion damage is formed on the surface of the bearing raceway, the leveling and smoothness of the lubricating oil film will be destroyed, leading to poor lubrication and further aggravating the damage.

3. Oxidation deterioration of lubricating oil

Water can cause the base oil in the oil to oxidize and deteriorate, and the rate of oxidation can increase significantly if high temperatures and impurities (such as fine metal scraps) are added. In addition, water can also cause the loss and consumption of antioxidants in lubricating oil, leading to the oxidation and deterioration of lubricating oil. The oxidation of lubricating oil will form acidic substances, paint film on the metal surface, and increase the viscosity of oil, leading to metal corrosion, affecting metal cooling and the normal function of some parts.

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