AHU Bearing Failure 1

[krb]

Has anyone seen a bearing failure on a supply fan in a rooftop air handler that was related to airflow problems? The situation we have is a failure on the drive bearing of a Mcquay air handler. This unit also has a return fan. On the outside air intake, this unit was tied to an energy recovery ventilator. The vendor says the ERV is the problem causing the bearing failure. I haven't seen this before and am looking for help solving the problem.

 

[jmoritz]

Sure, air flow "problems" can lead to unexpected bearing failures. I define an air flow "problem" as anything not as per the OEM design/expectations. It can induce unexpected loads on the bearings and therefore decrease their service life. Induced vibration will also hurt the bearings.