Transient rotordynamic modeling of rolling element bearing systems

Nonlinearity effects in rolling element bearings arise from Hertzian contact force deformation relationships, clearance between rolling elements and races, and the bearing-to-housing clearance. Assuming zero bearing-to-housing clearance, a simplified earlier analysis showed that rotor bearing systems (RBSs) with deep groove ball bearings can give rise to chaotic motion and jump. This paper extends the bearing model to include rolling element centrifugal load, angular contacts and axial dynamics; and illustrates their effects in a rigidly supported rigid RBS and a flexibly supported flexible RBS, the latter modeling an existing test rig. Results are presented on the effect of bearing preload on the unbalance response up to a speed of 18, 000 rpm.