Why You Need High Quality Food-Processing Bearings

Food processing equipment must operate in high-moisture production environments while maintaining the strictest hygiene standards. Machines are typically cleaned and sanitized regularly to comply with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other food safety regulatory bodies.

Traditional bearings often can’t withstand regular sanitation processes. Frequently, the seal will begin to wear down, causing water to either wash out the grease inside the bearing or seep in and become stuck. This not only causes internal rust and breakdown but also creates an ideal environment for harmful microbes to grow.

At Ribearing, we utilize specialized bearing materials, such as stainless steel or engineered plastics, that can withstand exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals, high temperatures, and frequent wash-downs. Stainless steel bearings and seals are also incredibly durable, enabling them to withstand the intense mechanical stresses and vibrations common in food processing equipment. Ritbearing sources our bearings from quality stainless steel bearing manufacturers like SMT. Our custom seal designs also prevent the ingress of water, oils, and other contaminants. We use food-grade greases to provide superior protection against washout, water ingress, and the growth of harmful bacteria.

These features ensure our bearings function reliably, even in the most challenging food processing conditions.

When bearings can’t withstand the rigors of the food production environment, they can pose a liability to your production line. An insufficient seal can not only harbor bacteria but also leak lubrication grease out of the machine and onto your product. This creates a health risk, causing costly downtimes for repair and, in some cases, necessitating a product recall.

Using high-quality stainless -steel bearings provides a smooth, non-porous surface that’s easier to sanitize and prevents the accumulation of bacteria, even with regular sanitation. As mentioned above, our food-grade greases protect against product wear down, washout and contamination. We know our customers need high-quality components to ensure the safety of their products and to meet stringent food safety standards.

Each time production stops for maintenance and repair, it impacts the facility’s overall output and profitability. So, we know food processors are looking for reliable and trouble-free components for their production lines.

Many food processing applications utilize bearings that are sealed for life, meaning they do not require regular re-lubrication. However, these bearings are not maintenance-free. Proper care and monitoring are still essential to prevent unexpected failures. Sealed-for-life bearings in food processing equipment must be inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage. This includes visually checking the bearing seals for cracks or leaks, as well as monitoring vibration levels that could indicate an issue. Replacing worn bearings is crucial to avoid costly breakdowns and production downtime.