Full definition
Primary bearing failure mode caused by sub-surface rolling contact fatigue. Under cyclic loading, cracks nucleate at steel inclusions and propagate to the surface, releasing metallic flakes of 0.1–5 mm. Generates vibration, noise, heat and eventual catastrophic failure. L10 life statistically predicts this phenomenon. ISO 281 standard. Accelerated by contamination, inadequate lubrication and overloading. Brands: SKF, NSK, FAG.