Timken's guidelines for the shelf life of grease lubricated rolling bearings, components and assemblies are as follows: Shelf life is determined based on test data and test experience. Shelf life differs from the design life of a lubricated bearing or component as follows: Shelf life of a grease lubricated bearing or component is the period of time prior to use or installation as part of the expected design life. Due to differences in lubricant bleed rates, vapour vapour, operating conditions, installation conditions, temperature, humidity and storage time, it is difficult to accurately predict their design life. Shelf life values u200bu200bprovided by Timken refer to the maximum period that follows Timken's storage and handling guidelines. Any deviation from Timken's storage and handling guidelines will result in a shortened shelf life. Instructions or operational examples for shelf life reduction should be consulted. Timken cannot foresee the performance of greases after bearings or components are installed or put into service. Timken is not responsible for the shelf life of bearings and components not lubricated by the company. Storage Timken recommends the following storage guidelines for finished products (bearings, components and assemblies collectively referred to as products): Unless otherwise specified by Timken, products should be kept in their original packaging until placed in service. Do not remove or alter packaging Do not puncture, crush or damage the packaging of any labels or imprints on the product when stored. After unpacking the product, make sure the product is put into use as soon as possible. Parts packages should be sealed immediately Do not use product beyond product shelf life (see Timken Bearings Shelf Life Guidelines) Temperatures in storage areas should be maintained between 0 C (32F) and 40C (104F); and temperature fluctuations should be minimized Relative humidity should be maintained below 60% and surfaces should be kept dry Storage areas should be protected from (but not limited to) dust contamination, dust contamination, harmful gas contamination, etc. Storage areas should be protected from excessive vibration Avoid any extreme conditions due to the unfamiliarity of Timken The specific storage environment of the customer, so we strongly recommend that you follow the above storage principles. However, if the relevant environment or government imposes higher storage requirements, the customer must comply accordingly. Most types of bearings are coated with a rust inhibitor (not lubricating oil) prior to shipping. In the application of TIMKEN oil lubricated bearings, there is no need to remove the rust inhibitor. In some special grease lubrication applications, we recommend that you remove the rust inhibitor before applying a suitable grease. Some bearing types in this catalog are packaged with general purpose greases for general applications. To ensure optimum performance of the product, frequent re-grease should be applied. Different greases are very likely to be incompatible with each other, and special care should be taken when selecting a grease. Other bearings can be pre-lubricated upon special request. Upon receipt, ensure that the bearings are well packaged prior to installation to avoid corrosion or contamination. To ensure the bearing's design life, it should be stored in a suitable environment.