Modelling of defective bearings - the importance of the leading and trailing edge angle of a defect

Abstract

Rolling element bearings eventually become worn and develop surface defects, such as spalls, dents, and pits. Researchers have tested bearings with sharp 90° rectangular edges to develop methods to estimate the size of a defect. However, these idealised rectangular defects do not occur in the real world. An analytical model has been developed for a cylindrical roller bearing with a defect that has sloped leading and trailing edges on the outer raceway. The results from the simulations were compared with experimental results. It was found that the vibration signatures of the entry and exit events are still detectable and have similar characteristics to those that are generated in bearings with sharp-edged rectangular defects, and the predicted vibration response can accurately predict these vibration signatures