Clamping Down On Counterfeit Bearings

As we’ve discussed before, fake or counterfeit products are an enormous problem in almost every market and unfortunately this issue extends far into the industrial market, particularly with bearings. Evidence proves that, despite various attempts to educate customers, counterfeit bearings continue to flood the market. This is a major concern. Fake products cause a potential safety risk for applications that rely on good quality manufacturing and materials to function correctly.

While the situation may seem beyond the average consumer’s control, companies recognise their customers concerns and are constantly working on solutions to assist with differentiating between real and fake bearings. SKF has created a programme and a mobile app that provides resources to validate the authenticity of their products. The app allows consumers to photograph a bearing and submit it for an authenticity test.

SKF also works closely with local task forces, conducting raids on known counterfeit bearing workshops in an attempt to clamp down on the source. In the YouTube video below, you can follow the Chinese authorities as they take down a local bearing workshop, producing counterfeit bearings. What’s most concerning is the awful working conditions, the clearly underage workers, and how even this small operation has access to advanced equipment.

So, how do end-users protect themselves and their equipment? The answer is simple: only ever purchase your bearings from authorised distributors of trusted manufacturing brands. Bearing Centre is proud to be an authorised distributor of quality brands and products.