An Improved Quasi-Dynamic Analytical Method to Predict Skidding in Roller Bearings under Conditions of Extremely Light Loads and Whirling

Slip often occurs in high-speed and light-load roller bearings (HSLLRBs) when the frictional drive force is inadequate to overcome the drag forces between the rolling elements and the raceway. Formerly, skidding analysis of HSLLRBs considering bearing whirling based on a simplified method using the Dowson-Higginson empirical model, although the analytical results of the cage slip fraction show significant discrepancies with the experimental data, as for extremely light radial loads. One of the main reasons is the inaccuracy of the evaluation of oil drag forces using the empirical equations. In this study, the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) method was adopted to calculate the oil film thickness and pressure distribution of HSLLRBs, so as to obtain more accurate oil drag forces. The cage speed and cage slip fraction were obtained by combining the whirl orbits, drag forces, load, kinematic equations and other related equations and then solved using the Newton-Raphson method. The skidding mechanism was investigated in terms of various operating parameters such as whirl orbit radii, radial load and viscosity. The results showed that the cage slip fraction and cage speed oscillate over time because of the whirl, which leads to an increase in the risk of bearing skidding damage. Under the extremely light load and high speed, the slip and influence of the whirl on bearing skidding increases as the whirl radius and radial load increases, while the viscosity shows a reverse trend. Therefore, in order to reduce slip and skidding damage, the whirl radius and radial load should be decreased suitably, while the viscosity should be increased moderately. A comparison between the calculated and experimental results shows that the proposed method is both feasible and valid.