This international standard defines, describes and classifies the characteristics, changes in appearance and possible causes of failure of rolling bearings, occurring in service. It will assist in the understanding of the various forms of change in appearance and the failure that has occurred.

Consideration is restricted to characteristic forms of change in appearance and failure, which have a well-defined appearance and which can be attributed to particular causes with a high degree of certainty. The features of particular interest for explaining changes and failures are described. The various forms are illustrated with photographs and diagrams, and the most frequent causes are indicated.

The failure mode designations shown in the subclause titles are recommended for general use, but similar expressions or synonyms are given within parentheses below the titles.