Fretting Corrosion and Linear Motion
Fretting corrosion of a V-Guide wheel or other type of steel roller bearing in a linear motion system is the sign of improper or complete lack of lubrication. Here are some symptoms to look for that can help you eliminate this type of premature failure in your linear motion system.
A discoloration that appears to be rust will most often be the first sign of fretting corrosion. This will normally occur because of lack of the proper or any type of lubrication. This rust colored material is actually wear debris that is breaking away from the steel races at a microscopic level. 
This damage to the asperities of the contact surfaces becomes an abrasive that increases the wear rate, impedes the effects of lubrication, and results in further fretting and breakdown of the system.
The solution to fretting corrosion is to be sure the proper lubrication is used on the raceways from the time of installation. Added lubricators can help to keep the necessary amount of lubrication on the raceways over time. Always remember, when using a steel-on-steel bearing system, that lubrication is the key influence that can make or break bearing service life.
Bill Brosend
Application Engineer
