A comparison of rolling element bearing stiffness calculation methods
Abstract
Purpose
This study examines two distinct bearing stiffness calculation methods, both of which are based on the displacement-load function. Previous research typically incorporated one type of bearing stiffness into their system mechanics or vibration analysis. However, these two methods of calculating stiffness lead to different vibration models. This implies that the choice for vibration investigation is not merely about selecting one of the two types of stiffness, but also about how to appropriately implement that chosen stiffness within a model. The primary objective of this work is to compare these two methods of bearing calculation and to discuss the suitable applications of each method in both static and dynamic analyses.
Design/methodology/approach
This study compares two distinct methods for calculating bearing stiffness. It explores the relationships between varying bearing stiffnesses, their internal structures, and contact features. Furthermore, it examines the impact of external loads on the static properties and dynamic characteristics of different bearing stiffnesses. Finally, based on the outcomes observed under various operating conditions, the study discusses the suitability of each method for static and dynamic analysis.
Findings
Mean stiffness is more suitable for calculating load transmissibility in a static state or capturing the delivery performance at instantaneous equilibrium positions in a dynamic state. Since the variation of the equilibrium positions is ignored, the alternating stiffness model is better suited for capturing the fluctuating properties of the vibration behaviors, especially under variable external load conditions.
Originality/value
We compare the two bearing calculation methods and discuss the appropriate applications of each method for static and dynamic analysis.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The author would like to extend the sincere thanks to the anonymous reviewers for their thoughtful comments and suggestions.
Citation
Wang, Z. (2024), "A comparison of rolling element bearing stiffness calculation methods", Engineering Computations, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/EC-09-2023-0550
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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