NSK tackles bearings counterfeiters

Maidenhead, UK - NSK Europe has resolved a major problem of counterfeiting of its bearing products in the German market. The problem, which concerned mainly deep groove ball bearings - some up to 500mm diameter - and smaller quantities of cylindrical and taper roller bearings.

According to the company, an investigation into customer complaints about failed bearings found that the products did not meet its quality levels in terms of material specification and durability. The source of these bearings was subsequently identified and the "proper steps" are now being taken, said an NSK statement..

“Counterfeiting of any manufacturers’ products is illegal and puts safety at risk,” said Dr. Jürgen Ackermann, MD European Bearings Business Unit “Bearings are safety critical components in all types of equipment and machinery, and their reliable performance is a safeguard for personnel against catastrophic failures that could cause injury. However, this safeguard is totally invalidated by the use of counterfeit bearings, which do not have the quality guarantees provided by reputable manufacturers.”

NSK has undertaken measures to help prevent any further supply of counterfeit versions of its bearing products into the market and is warning customers to beware of bearings that are being offered at low prices. The company is also increasing its product training for authorised distributors, to enable them to recognise counterfeit products easily.