Wear-life analysis of deep groove ball bearings based on Archard wear theory

Abstract

A quasi-dynamic method is proposed to evaluate the characteristics of ball bearings, which include pressure distribution over the contact area between the ball and the raceway, sliding velocity distribution, and lubrication parameters. The extent of permissible wear is confirmed based on the Archard wear equation. A mathematical model for wear-life analysis is then presented for 6000 deep groove ball bearings with axial loads. The effects of axial loads, rotating speed, and structural parameters on wear characteristics of bearings are analyzed. A number of conclusions are drawn. Based on the proposed mathematical model, the wear life of a bearing decreases with increased axial load. The wear life of the bearing decreases as the rotational speed of the inner ring increases. The wear life of the bearing exhibits nearly linear increment as the groove curvature of the inner ring increases and decreases as the groove curvature of the outer ring increases.