In lubrication-related heat buildup, which factor is explicitly linked with heat generation alongside misalignment?

• A. Overloading
• B. Cool ambient temperature
• C. Adequate lubrication
• D. Larger bearing size

Answer: (A)

Heat buildup from lubrication happens when friction at contact surfaces turns energy into heat. Misalignment pushes loads away from the intended alignment, creating uneven contact and higher local pressures. When you add overloading, the contact stresses and sliding resistance rise even more, so more friction is generated and more heat is produced in both the bearing surfaces and the lubricant as it’s sheared. That combination is a direct driver of extra heat.

The other factors don’t line up with that heat-creation link as clearly. A cooler ambient temperature helps remove heat rather than create it. Adequate lubrication reduces friction and heat, not increases it. A larger bearing size can change how load is distributed, but it doesn’t inherently cause the same heat-generation effect that comes from pairing misalignment with overload.