The life of spherical roller bearings is typically expressed in terms of their rated service life or L10 life. L10 life represents the calculated life expectancy of a group of identical bearings operating at a given speed and under specific load conditions, with 90% reliability. It means that 90% of a population of bearings are expected to reach or exceed this calculated life.

The rated service life of a spherical roller bearing depends on several factors, including the applied load, operating speed, lubrication conditions, and the specific design and quality of the bearing. These factors influence the fatigue life of the bearing, which is the ability of the bearing to withstand repeated stress cycles without failure.

Manufacturers provide life calculation methods and software tools to estimate the rated service life of spherical roller bearings based on these factors. These calculations take into account the bearing's dynamic load rating (C), which is the load under which the bearing will achieve a specified life of one million revolutions.

It's important to note that the rated service life is an estimate and can vary depending on the actual operating conditions. Factors such as variations in load, speed, and lubrication quality can affect the actual life of the bearing. Additionally, poor installation practices, contamination, inadequate maintenance, or operating conditions beyond the bearing's specified limits can significantly impact the bearing's life.

To maximize the life of spherical roller bearings, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for proper installation, lubrication, and maintenance practices. Regular inspection, monitoring of operating conditions, and timely replacement of worn or damaged bearings can help ensure optimal performance and extend the bearing's service life.