I collected data on a unit yesterday and analyzed the data, I came in this morning to find out the drive end bearing failed (the shaft was locked-up and the paint was burn around the end bell). Other then some electrical frequencies that are common to the high efficiency motors we use, there was nothing to make a call on. The motor is on a pump in a corn syrup refinery. I believe that the drive end bearing was contaminated with the syrup and it crystallized and caused the bearing to overeat and fail. Has anyone every seen this happen and/or could confirm this as a possible cause of the failure? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

Patrick,
The Root Cause of your failure will be typically within the evidence of the failure. Was there any syrup residue around the motor? Could a syrup leak got to the motor? Are syrup leaks common? What type of seals were on the motor? What condition were they in prior to the failure? What is your greasing program of the motors like? etc.
I have noted product entering bearings previously which led to bearing failures, but from the evidence you presented this is only one of many possible causes.

Hope this helps.
Tony Sovar.
Disclaimer: These opinions are my own and not necessarily those of my employer.