Corrosion on bearings leads to equipment failure. This is ample reason to avoid corrosion if at all possible by proper VpCI® packaging during shipment and proper lubrication in service. Sometimes, though, harsh environments or operating conditions take over and lead to corrosion anyway. This interrupts activity, but it does not necessarily mean the bearing’s life is over. Depending on the severity of the corrosion, the bearing may be restored to usable condition and reinstalled for a second life of service.

One excellent way to restore bearings is with a dip bath of VpCI®-422, a “green” technology product that contains 92% USDA certified biobased content. Simply place the rusty bearing in the tub for 15 minutes or longer, depending on the severity of the rust. Upon removal, rinse it in a freshwater dilution of one of Cortec’s VpCI®-400 Series (e.g., VpCI®-414, VpCI®-415, VpCI®-416, VpCI®-418 LM) cleaners to neutralize and protect the surface against flash rust. Repeat the process until the rust has been completely removed.

Once the bearing is restored, allow it to dry before reinstalling it with the appropriate lubricant. If the bearing needs to be laid up for later use, choose from a wide array of VpCI® packaging materials (VpCI® Paper, Films, Foams) for dry corrosion protection without any special coatings application or removal required.

Contact Cortec® for further assistance and advice on your specific bearings restoration project.