If a shielded bearing is over-lubricated or excessive pressure, the shield can be pushed against the balls. This is called a ______ shield, and the bearing will soon fail.

• A. Collasped shield
• B. Collapsed shield
• C. Deformed shield
• D. Crushed shield

Answer: (A)

When a shielded bearing is over-lubricated or subjected to excessive sealing pressure, the shield can be pressed inward until it deforms and essentially collapses against the rolling elements. This condition is known as a collapsed shield. The inward pressing causes direct contact with the balls, leading to scoring, increased friction, misalignment, and eventual bearing failure as the shields interfere with smooth rotation and the lubrication seal is compromised. The term collapsed shield is the standard description for this inward deformation; other phrasing like “deformed,” “crushed,” or similar terms may describe the damage, but they do not capture the specific failure mode described in the scenario.