Frictional contact analysis in a spherical roller bearing

Numerical analyses of the roller-raceway contact have been carried out in a spherical roller bearing using frictional contact models of different complexity. The models used in the study include an implementation of Kalker's exact contact theory named CECT (Conformal Exact Contact Theory) and detailed Finite Element models. The adequacy of the more simplified contact solutions is assessed by contrasting them with the solutions obtained with the more comprehensive models. Additionally, the use of the exact contact theory, well known in the wheel-rail application, is demonstrated in contact mechanics analyses in rolling bearings, describing relevant details of its implementation for this application. Situations with different normal loads and friction levels have been analysed, and two distinct steady equilibrium configurations of the roller have been identified.

Automated summary

Numerical analyses were conducted on the roller-raceway contact in a spherical roller bearing using frictional contact models of varying complexity. The study utilized models such as CECT (Conformal Exact Contact Theory) based on Kalker's exact contact theory and detailed Finite Element models. The adequacy of simplified contact solutions was evaluated by comparing them with solutions obtained from more comprehensive models. Additionally, the application of the exact contact theory, commonly used in wheel-rail systems, was demonstrated in contact mechanics analyses of rolling bearings, including implementation details. Different normal loads and friction levels were analyzed, leading to the identification of two distinct steady equilibrium configurations for the roller.