What Is a Re-Lubrication Interval?
The re-lubrication interval is the recommended time between grease replenishment doses for a bearing. Operating beyond this interval causes lubricant degradation, film breakdown, metal-to-metal contact, and eventually premature bearing failure. The interval is calculated using the SKF tf formula or equivalent manufacturer methodology.
How to Calculate
The SKF method calculates a base interval from bearing diameter and speed, then applies correction factors for temperature, vertical shaft, vibration, and contamination level. The Grease Selection Guide walks through the full calculation with interactive tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should bearings be re-lubricated?
It depends on bearing size, speed, temperature, and environment. The SKF re-lubrication interval formula starts with a base interval derived from bearing diameter and speed, then applies correction factors for temperature (halve for every 15C above 70C), vertical shaft, vibration, and contamination. Our Grease Selection Guide provides the full calculation method.