NSK has undertaken measures to help prevent any further supply of counterfeit versions of its bearing products into the market.

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, came to light as a result of customer reports.

An investigation revealed that the failed bearings did not meet NSK's quality levels in terms of material specification and life.

The source of these bearings was subsequently identified and the proper steps are being taken.

"Counterfeiting of any manufacturers' products is illegal and puts safety at risk", said Dr Jurgen 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".

"Initially users may be attracted by the low price of counterfeit bearings, but, ultimately, there may be a very heavy price to pay as a result of premature and often catastrophic failure of these bearings".

The company is warning customers to beware of bearings that are being offered at very much lower prices, compared to NSK's standard price list.

NSK is also increasing its product training for NSK Authorised Distributors, to enable them to recognise counterfeit products easily.

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