Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) Practice Test

Using a cutting torch to remove bearings is best considered a last resort due to several reasons. When it comes to maintenance and repair, there are generally safer and more effective methods for bearing removal, such as using specialized tools like pullers or hydraulic presses. These methods minimize the risk of damaging the surrounding components or the bearings themselves.

A cutting torch generates intense heat, which can lead to thermal expansion and affect adjacent parts. This method can also produce sparks, which pose fire hazards and can create a hazardous working environment. Therefore, it’s imperative to evaluate all other options and only turn to a cutting torch when all safer and more precise methods have been deemed impractical or ineffective.

This careful approach ensures both the safety of the technician and the integrity of the machinery being worked on, making the cutting torch an option that should be reserved for the most challenging scenarios.