Ridge Wear Repair / Cam Effect .
Cam Wear / Ridge Wear Correction.
Crankpin surfaces within medium-speed diesel engines are subjected to continuous loading during operation. Over extended service periods, wear patterns can develop across the crankpin surface that affect the correct geometry of the journal.
One such condition is commonly referred to as cam wear or ridge wear, where a raised band develops around the circumference of the crankpin. This wear pattern can disrupt the flatness of the journal surface and interfere with correct bearing contact.
If left uncorrected, ridge wear can increase the risk of bearing distress and further crankshaft damage.
Journal Machining provides specialist inspection and corrective machining of crankpins affected by cam wear or ridge wear, allowing affected surfaces to be restored where site conditions allow.
Understanding Cam / Ridge Wear.
Ridge wear typically develops gradually over extended operating hours. It is most often observed on engines operating with grooved bearing shells, where variations in lubrication and contamination levels can influence wear patterns across the journal surface.
The condition may appear as a raised circumferential band around the crankpin diameter. If the wear pattern progresses, the journal surface may no longer provide the correct contact conditions for the bearing shell.
Corrective Machining.
Crankpins affected by ridge wear can be corrected through controlled machining and surface restoration processes. Removing the irregular wear pattern allows the correct journal geometry to be re-established so that stable bearing operation can be maintained.
Typical Applications.
These repairs are often undertaken during planned maintenance periods or when early signs of crankpin wear are identified during inspection.
Industries We Support.
Inspection and Early Identification .
Assessment
Early identification of ridge wear allows corrective work to be carried out before more severe crankshaft damage occurs.
Because this condition develops gradually over time, inspection of crankpin surfaces and wear patterns is important in determining when corrective machining may be required and whether the journal surface can be restored where site conditions allow.
Frequently Asked Questions.
If you have any other question please contact us.
What is cam wear or ridge wear on a crankpin?
Cam wear or ridge wear is an irregular wear pattern that can develop across the crankpin surface over extended operating periods. It is commonly seen as a raised circumferential band around the crankpin diameter, which can affect journal flatness and interfere with correct bearing contact.
What causes ridge wear to develop?
Ridge wear typically develops gradually over time and is most often observed on engines operating with grooved bearing shells. Variations in lubrication and contamination levels can influence how wear patterns develop across the journal surface.
Why does ridge wear need to be corrected?
If left uncorrected, ridge wear can increase the risk of bearing distress and further crankshaft damage. As the wear pattern progresses, the journal surface may no longer provide the correct contact conditions for the bearing shell.
Can crankpins affected by ridge wear be repaired in place?
Where site conditions allow, crankpins affected by ridge wear can be corrected through controlled machining and surface restoration processes. Removing the irregular wear pattern allows correct journal geometry to be re-established so that stable bearing operation can be maintained.
What types of equipment can require ridge wear correction?
Cam wear correction may be required on medium-speed diesel generator engines, marine propulsion engines, heavy industrial diesel engines, and reciprocating machinery operating under sustained load.
Need Support with Ridge Wear Correction?
Speak to us about planned works or corrective machining for crankpins affected by cam wear or ridge wear.