What is a typical characteristic of a bearing experiencing fatigue failure?

A bearing experiencing fatigue failure typically exhibits surface irregularities, which occur as a result of repeated stress cycles on the material. These surface irregularities may manifest as pitting or spalling, where small pieces of the bearing surface break away due to the fatigue process. This degradation can compromise the bearing's performance and longevity, leading to further failure if not addressed.

The presence of surface irregularities indicates that the material is undergoing physical changes that are characteristic of fatigue failure, which often occurs after prolonged periods of operational stress. Identifying these irregularities early can help in preventive maintenance and avoiding more significant mechanical failures.

While excessive noise during operation, increased lubrication needs, and elevated temperatures may indicate issues related to poor lubrication, alignment, or overheating, they are not exclusive indicators of fatigue failure. Instead, they may point to various other problems that a bearing might experience. Therefore, surface irregularities are the defining characteristic of fatigue failure in bearings.