Reliability Crime LabODR FIELD EXPLORER · 03 ODR Field Explorer
Operator Diagnostic Reliability

Three bearing heat signatures.
One disciplined observation.

An IR gun does not diagnose a bearing. It helps an operator detect a meaningful change, compare like with like, and escalate better evidence.

Inspect the first case
The ODR rule Same point · Same distance · Same operating condition · Trend over time
01

Choose a case

Inspect the pattern, then reveal what the evidence suggests.

IR scan simulation LIVE OBSERVATION
POINT A 168°F +34°F above matched baseline
Observed trendSteady climb under stable load
Start of roundNow
CASE 01ESCALATE

The temperature keeps climbing

The load is stable, but the bearing housing is progressively hotter than its own baseline and its matched peer.

Evidence to notice

  • The same marked point rises on consecutive rounds.
  • The matched bearing stays near its normal range under the same load.
  • A dry, raspy, or changing sound may appear with the heat trend.
  • No recent process change explains the temperature increase.
02

Compare the signatures

Look for the pattern.

SignatureIR-gun observationWhat it suggestsOperator response
Underlubrication01 · RISING TREND Progressive rise at the same point versus baseline or a matched peer. Inadequate lubricant film, delivery problem, wrong lubricant, or contamination. Record the trend and condition; verify lubrication history and escalate for confirmation.
Overlubrication02 · POST-GREASE RISE Temperature steps up after grease is added; purge or drag may appear. Excess grease and churning; also check relief path and grease compatibility. Do not add more by reflex; verify the amount, type, timing, purge, and trend.
Misalignment03 · UNEVEN GRADIENT Repeatable side-to-side or coupled-end temperature imbalance. Offset or angular misalignment; also consider soft foot, strain, looseness, or load. Capture matched points and request alignment, vibration, and mechanical checks.