How to replace flange slewing bearing

Replacing a flange slewing bearing is a complex task, often performed on heavy machinery or industrial equipment. Below are the general steps involved in replacing a flange slewing bearing.

Flange slewing bearing replacement

Preparation Phase:

Gather the necessary tools and materials: You will need lifting equipment, safety gear, wrenches, torque tools, and possibly hydraulic jacks. Always refer to the equipment’s manual for the specific tools required.

Review safety guidelines: Ensure all personnel are aware of safety measures and follow lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental startup.

Inspect the new bearing: Before starting, check the new bearing for any signs of damage.

Removal of the Old Bearing:

Position the equipment: Move the machinery to a stable area where it can be safely accessed.

Disconnect electrical and hydraulic systems: Isolate and shut off all power and fluid lines connected to the equipment.

Support the structure: Use a crane or lifting mechanism to support the machine’s upper structure to relieve pressure on the slewing bearing.

Remove bolts: Carefully unbolt the bearing flange and related connections using appropriate tools. Keep track of all removed hardware.

Extract the bearing: Once the bolts are removed, gently lift the old bearing away using a crane or similar equipment. Take care not to damage the mating surfaces.

Installation of the New Bearing:

Clean and inspect the mounting surface: Ensure the mounting areas are clean, free from debris, and not damaged. Any imperfections can cause alignment issues.

Apply lubricant: Grease the mounting surfaces as per the manufacturer's recommendations.

Position the new bearing: Use the lifting equipment to place the new bearing in position. Align the holes with the mounting bolts.

Bolt tightening: Install and lightly tighten the bolts in a star pattern to ensure even distribution. Once all bolts are in place, torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.

Recheck alignment: Confirm that the bearing is seated correctly and aligned properly.

Reconnect electrical and hydraulic lines: Restore all connections that were removed.

Lubricate and test: Apply the recommended lubricant to the bearing and perform a series of slow movements to confirm proper functioning.

Post-Replacement Check:

Perform operational tests: Slowly move the equipment to ensure the bearing is functioning smoothly.

Final inspections: Check for leaks, noise, or unusual movements.

Tips:

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications for torque settings, lubrication, and installation.

Have a team of skilled technicians to assist, as it’s not a one-person job due to the size and weight of slewing bearings.