Rolling element bearing dynamics

Ball and roller bearings are basically simple mechanisms, yet their use in applications involving high speed, high temperatures, heavy or unusual loading requires a precise definition of performance undeterminable using the analytical methods of manufacturers' catalogs and handbooks. To analyze bearing performance in such applications requires the employment of techniques involving elemental kinematics, kinetics, theory of elasticity, hydrodynamic and elastòhydrodynamic lubrication, friction and heat transfer. In this discussion the pertinent relationships for the evaluation of rolling element bearing dynamic performance in any application are presented. Owing to the number and complexity of the equations, digital computer programs are required to obtain problem solutions. Sample outputs from such programs are presented.