Bearing Current Remediation Options: Sources, Investigative Measurements, and Installation Modifications to Reduce Damage as a Result of Bearing Currents

Abstract

The vast majority of bearing failures in electric motors and electric motor-driven equipment are due to mechanical and thermal causes. Bearing current in induction motor can result in premature bearing failure. Proper remediation methods depend upon a thorough understanding of the potential current paths in a given installation. Diagrams of current flow paths were presented here to illustrate potential issues. Proper grounding is a key to shunting currents away from paths that flow through motor or driven equipment bearings.