How is bearing removal force calculated?

The removal force F = p × π × d × L × μ, where p is the interface pressure from Lamé's equations, d is the bore diameter, L is the contact length, and μ is the friction coefficient (typically 0.10-0.20 for steel-on-steel).

What is a typical friction coefficient for bearing removal?

For dry steel-on-steel: μ ≈ 0.12-0.18. With oil: μ ≈ 0.05-0.10. For removal (vs. assembly), friction is generally higher because there is no oil film, and microwelds may have formed.

How can I reduce the removal force?

Heat the outer ring (or housing) to expand it, or cool the shaft. Oil injection through a groove can also create a hydraulic release. Purpose-built bearing pullers distribute the force evenly.

What interference causes what pressure?

For a 50mm steel shaft with 0.020mm interference, the contact pressure is approximately 30-50 MPa. This creates removal forces of several kN for typical bearing widths.

Can I reuse a bearing after removal?

If removed carefully using proper tools (pullers, hydraulic methods), bearings can often be reused. Never strike a bearing with a hammer. Inspect for damage marks on raceways after removal.

Free Engineering Tool #056

Bearing Removal (Extraction) Force Calculator

Estimate the force required to extract a bearing from an interference fit using Lamé’s thick-cylinder equations. Enter dimensions and interference.

Lamé EquationsInterference FitExtraction Force

Results

Removal Force

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Interface Pressure p

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Ratio d/Do

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Force in tonnes

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Interface Pressure (Lamé)

For a solid shaft pressed into a hollow hub (bearing inner ring):

δ — diametral interference (mm)
d — nominal interface diameter (mm)
D_o — outer diameter of hub/ring (mm)
E — Young’s modulus (MPa)

Removal Force

⚠️ Note: This is a simplified model assuming solid shaft and uniform contact. Surface roughness, temperature effects, and material yielding are not included. Actual forces may vary ±30%.

Bearing Removal Force Calculator | Lamé Equations | Free Online Tool

Published by admin on February 15, 2026 February 15, 2026

Results

Interface Pressure (Lamé)

Removal Force