Full Dynamic Ball Bearing Model with Elastic Outer Ring for High Speed Applications

Abstract

Ball bearings are commonly used in high speed turbomachinery and have a critical influence on the rotordynamic behavior. Therefore, a simulation model of the bearing to predict the dynamic influence is essential. The presented model is a further step to develop an accurate and efficient characterization of the ball bearing's rotor dynamic parameters such as stiffness and deflections as well as vibrational excitations induced by the discrete rolling elements. To make it applicable to high speed turbomachinery, the model considers centrifugal forces, gyroscopic effects and ball spinning. The consideration of an elastic outer ring makes the bearing model suitable for integrated lightweight bearing constructions used in modern aircraft turbines. In order to include transient rotordynamic behavior, the model is built as a full dynamic multibody simulation with time integration. To investigate the influence of the elasticity of the outer ring, a comparison with a rigid formulation for several rotational speeds and loads is presented.

The effect of outer ring elastodynamics on vibration and power loss of radial ball bearings

“…The FEA approach has been employed by Daidi e et al 32 as well as by Olave et al, 33 requiring high mesh density around the rollers, which leads to long computation times and limits the use of this approach under transient conditions. Other FEA-based models include the work of Lacroix et al, 34 linking FEA of the rings to an analytical contact model and Wagner et al 35 who used an FEA model of the flexible outer ring to demonstrate its influence upon the performance of a high speed ball bearing.…”

“…Other FEA-based models include the work of Lacroix et al., 34 linking FEA of the rings to an analytical contact model and Wagner et al. 35 who used an FEA model of the flexible outer ring to demonstrate its influence upon the performance of a high speed ball bearing.…”

Simulation of Vibration Propagated by Rolling Element Bearings in Mechanical Gearbox

“…The multi-body dynamic solution is the most effective method for vibration analysis. The full dynamic model of ball bearing is developed as consider an effect of the elasticity of the outer ring, a comparison with a rigid body formulation [6]. The dynamic model of a deep groove ball bearing with six degrees of freedom is developed and simulated based on the non-linear Hertzian contact deformation and elastohydrodynamic fluid film.…”

Evaluation of Uncertainties in the Design Process of Complex Mechanical Systems

“…Multibody systems are the class of mechanical systems composed of rigid and/or flexible bodies interconnected by kinematic joints [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. They are subjected to nonlinear external force fields and undergo large, finite translations and rotations [11][12][13][14][15]. Examples of multibody systems can be found in several engineering applications [16][17][18][19][20].…”