Tribological and dynamic performance analysis of rolling bearings with varied surface textures operating under lubricant contamination

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of textured rolling bearings to capture and store contaminants in a lubricant-contaminated state. Cylindrical thrust roller bearings (CTRBs) were selected for investigation, and circular textures were prepared on the bearing raceway surface using laser etching. The effects of pit location, diameter, depth, and area density on the tribological and dynamic performance of rolling bearings operating in a contaminated environment were examined. Results showed that adding texture only to the shaft washer raceway improved friction reduction and dynamic performance. Additionally, carefully designed textures could suppress vibration energy in the medium and high frequency bands of the bearing. Notably, the ability of the texture to capture contaminants was directly influenced by the diameter and area density of the pits. Furthermore, the relationship between the pits' depth and wear reduction capacity was closely linked to their diameter.