Catastrophic bearing failure was the main cause of this spindle malfunction Continue reading to learn how Northland Tool performed this repair and converted a Weiss GHK 176239 spindle from grease-injected to permanent grease lubrication……
Read MoreVoumard VMX-120 Spindle Rebuild
The Voumard VMX120 spindle is oil mist lubricated, stator driven, and capable of an astonishing 120,000 rpm.
CHALLENGE
This Voumard VMX-120 spindle had catastrophic rear bearing failure. The rear bearing ball cage got extremely hot and melted to the rear bearing housing. We also noted that the rear housing was egg shaped, which may have caused the ball cage (white at the top of the picture) to not move freely. As the spindle heats up the shaft grows, and if the ball cage does not allow thermal expansion, the rear bearings become excessively preloaded and fail. Lastly, the shaft journals were all undersized and will need to be addressed.
SOLUTION
The following actions were performed on this Voumard VMX-120 spindle:
- Clean, inspect overall dimensions
- Replace bearings, o-rings, and assembly screws
- Grind, chrome plate, and finish grind (GPG) the front and rear journals
- GPG the rear housing ID and OD
- Manufacture a new ball cage
RESULT
After reassembly of all components, adjusting bearing preload, and undergoing break-in and testing procedures, this spindle passed our final quality inspection before being returned to our customer with a 1-year warranty.
DETAILED CAUSE OF FAILURE
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Repair History - Here are examples of similar spindle repairs that may contain additional information that will help you. If you have additional questions, please contact us.
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