How does excessive tensioning of a belt affect bearing life?

Excessive tensioning of a belt can significantly decrease the life of bearings due to increased stress and load placed on the bearing components. When a belt is overtightened, it creates additional radial and axial loads on the bearings that they are not designed to handle. This excess tension can lead to premature wear, increased friction, and overheating within the bearing, ultimately resulting in failure.

Bearings are engineered to operate within specific load parameters and tolerances, and when those are exceeded, the integrity of the bearing is compromised. The additional stress can cause issues such as misalignment and increased clearance within the bearing assembly, further contributing to wear and potential failure.

Proper belt tension is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and longevity of both the belt and associated mechanical components, including bearings. By ensuring that belts are tensioned correctly, you can extend bearing life and enhance overall system reliability.