A simplified spherical roller bearing model and its application in the wind turbine main bearing system finite element modeling

Different from most bearing design guidelines, deformation of bearing rings and supporting structures usually influences the bearing performance significantly. Finite element analysis (FEA) can be used in bearing system design considering the structure deformation, but the contact region between rolling elements and raceways modeling is very complex and usually causes non-convergent problems. As to a spherical roller bearing (SRB), the model must also consider both its misalignment ability and roller contact stiffness. This paper presents a simplified SRB model considering the angular misalignment ability. In order to define the SRB roller raceway load deformation relationship, a lamina model is developed. And this simplified model is validated by solid roller model of a bearing sector. A wind turbine main bearing system is analyzed using the developed SRB model. Load distribution considering the system deformation and angular misalignment are discussed. With the help of fine meshed solid elements roller raceway contact model, the raceway contact pressure and subsurface stress distribution can also be obtained.