International Journal of Industrial Engineering & Production Research

In this research, the life expectancy of ball bearings in industrial applications is estimated based on known parameters. The overall mathematical calculation of such behavior is based on the theory of Lundberg and Palmgren. The proposed life estimation equation however lacks certain points to make it qualified as universal. A firm conclusion therefore could not be obtained on the basis of this equation alone, particularly when different operating conditions are involved. One such example is the life of ball bearings while operating in clean lubricant environment, which is approximately up to 20 times longer than the calculated life based on the previously prescribed equations. On the other hand, active life under contaminated lubricants is nearly close to one-tenth of the calculated life originally thought to be correct .