Mounting Methods (Part 4 of 4): Tapered Adapter SleeveMarch 8, 2017 by Lauren Ansley, PTI(This is the fourth and final installment of a four-part series examining the Four Shaft Attachment Methods for Mounted Ball Bearings…) PTI offers all four (4) shaft locking mechanisms for mounted (aka “housed”) ball bearings:Setscrew LockingEccentric Locking CollarConcentric Clamp CollarTapered Adapter SleeveLet’s examine the fourth option: PTI GSH and UK series mounted ball bearings have a tapered bore and are secured to the shaft using a tapered adapter assembly. GSH and UK series tapered adapter assemblies consist of a tapered adapter sleeve, a lock washer and a lock nut. As the adapter is tightened using a spanner wrench, the adapter is drawn through the bearing and tightened to the shaft. Because the contact of the bearing is evenly distributed around the shaft, it provides the most concentric/ideal fit. Read on to learn more…KEY FEATURES OF THE TAPERED ADAPTER SLEEVE: Easy to InstallConcentric Grip to the ShaftProvides a More Balanced Fit, Ideal for Medium to High Speeds*Note: This bearing has the highest purchase price and will take the longest to install, but allows for minimal shaft damage and highest possible speeds with the least amount of vibration.HOW TO INSTALL THE TAPERED ADAPTER MOUNTED BALL BEARING: Starts at 04:55 Slide the assembly onto the shaftHold-down bolts for adapter mounted units should be tightened after the bearing is locked to the shaftSnug locking nut by hand on each bearing noting the hold-down bolt hole position.Once positioned into place, tighten the adjusting nut, drawing the adapter through the bearing clamping down onto the shaftCheck mounting bolt holes to insure adequate bolt clearance will remain after tightening.Reposition the bearing if necessary.Take care to ensure the locknut is not overtightened, as this can eliminate the bearing internal clearance, resulting in premature bearing failureTighten to the proper torque per Chart 3 below (from our Mounted Ball Bearing Installation Manual)Re-check hold down bolts after 24 hours of operation to insure nothing has loosened. This check should become part of periodic maintenance including re-lube intervals DID YOU KNOW?When tightening, the axial movement of the bearing will be less than 1/32” if starting from a snug positionFlange Bearings may require a shim behind the flange if a gap remains after mounting to avoid bearing pre-load.L10 Life = the expected life of the bearing under normal conditions. Factors affecting bearing life include temperature, ambient conditions (presence of moisture, dust, dirt and other contaminants) and lubrication/maintenance practices.PTI has the product, engineers, and experience to help you choose the ideal mounting method for your application.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:PTI Engineers are available to help calculate your bearing’s life expectancy as well as to help diagnose bearing failure. Contact us for details.Ball Bearing Instruction Manual – included with every related order from PTI The Four Shaft Attachment Methods – click for full video Lubrication Tips – click for videoWe hope you enjoyed this four part series! Click here to access Part One: Setscrew Locking, Part Two: The Eccentric Locking Collar, and Part Three: The Concentric Clamp Collar.