Contamination coefficient

Symbol ec
Unit -
Attribute-ID beiwertec
Numeric ID 462
Value Type PMDouble

The contamination quotient ec (also impurity coefficient) takes into account the reduction to the bearing life due to contaminants in the lubricant.

Foreign particles in the lubricant lead to plastic deformations on the bearing raceway. This causes excess stresses on these positions, resulting in a reduction of the bearing life.

Contamination quotient ec acc. to DIN ISO 281

Contamination Coefficient eC
dpw <
100 mm
dpw
100 mm
Extremely high cleanliness
Particle size in the magnitude of the lubricating film thickness; laboratory conditions
1 1
High cleanliness
Fine filtration of the oil supply; sealed, greased bearings
0.8 - 0.6 0.9 - 0.8
Normal cleanliness
Oil filtered through a fine filter; greased bearings with sealing shields
0.6 - 0.5 0.8 - 0.6
Light contamination
Light contamination of the lubricant
0.5 - 0.3 0.6 - 0.4
Heavy contamination
Bearing area heavily contaminated; inadequate sealing
0.1 - 0.0 0.1 - 0.0
Very heavy contamination 0.0 0.0

For additional information regarding calculation of the contamination quotient see DIN/ISO 281 (2010) p. 32 ff.