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The paper deals with the investigation of the heat treatment impact on the microstructure quality of the bearing steel. The given  heat treatment process as well as its impact on quality was determined for 14 260 material ( the designation of the given steel is based on Slovak Technical Standards). Unsuitable conditions of hardening process could be seen in the final steel microstructure as well as in values of mechanical properties. The structural heterogeneity and unsuitable processing conditions of the heat treatment led to pitting and premature initiation of the ruprure. The given condition can  lead to the component lifetime reduction, and even to the  various technical collisions. The mentioned investigation was performed for  a component that is mechanically and thermally loaded in its service, where stress-strain states are not allowed. If the material is heterogeneous, even after the heat treatment, there is a risk of immediate destruction of the component and it was also evident in this case. Continuous inspection of the microstructure of the heat treated bearing steel can eliminate as well as prevent from undesirable conditions during the operation of the given structural component.