Analysis of Surface Parameters and Vibration of Roller Bearing

Abstract

The surface of the inner race of a detachable roller bearing is monitored periodically to determine the deterioration pattern under normal conditions together with the vibration level. The surface of the inner race is scanned using an infinite focus microscope to evaluate surface properties utilizing the 2D and 3D parameters. Both parameters successfully assess the surface degradation and wear of the bearing surface. Using the Dowson-Higginson equation on elastohydrodynamic lubrication, the theoretical lubrication film was calculated and the lubrication regimes identified. A high vibration level can be associated with surface roughness properties and relative lubrication regime. This work highlights the relationship between the bearing vibration level and the bearing inner race surface parameters. The two surface parameters with the highest Pearson correlation coefficient with the vibration level are the areal surface roughness S_a (0.997) and the average roughness R_a (0.936).

KEY WORDS:

• Cylindrical Roller Bearing
• Surface Roughness
• Vibration Analysis

APPENDIX

Table 1A—Dimension of Bearings and Values used in the Calculation