Method and device for securing and protecting a rolling element bearing

A clamping device configured to secure and protect a rolling-element bearing during a bearing mounting operation, wherein the rolling-element bearing comprises a bearing outer ring, a bearing inner ring, a bearing cage disposed between the bearing outer and inner rings and a retaining means axially projecting from the bearing cage, the clamping device comprising:

• a first part having a first end and a second end,
• a second part having a first end and a second end, the first end of the first part being pivotably coupled to the first end of the second part via a hinge,
• the second end of the first and second parts having each having locking means for releasably locking the clamping device in its closed position,
• an attachment means defined by the first and second parts between the first and second ends thereof, the attachment means being configured to surround and clasp at least a portion of the retaining means when the clamping device is folded into its closed position,
• wherein one of the first and second ends of the first and second parts is configured to radially overlap and rest on the bearing inner ring and the other of the first and second ends of the first and second parts is configured to radially overlap and rest on the bearing outer ring so as to axially support the bearing cage relative to the bearing outer ring and the bearing inner ring when the clamping device is clamped onto the retaining means.