Vibration characteristics of rolling bearing cage under speed variation conditions

Speed variation conditions deteriorate the force state of the rolling bearing internal components and aggravate the cage vibration, which can affect the service life and reliability of rolling bearings. This work introduced the rubbing effect and hydrodynamic contact between the cage and the guiding ring, taking into account the effect of the slip between the rolling elements and the cage. The dynamic analysis model of the cylindrical roller bearing was established, and the vibration characteristics of the cage were discussed under the start-stop conditions and different fluctuations of rotation rate. Results showed that the vibration of the cage mainly occurred at the middle and late stages of the acceleration process, and the impact mainly occurred at the middle stage of the deceleration process under the start-stop conditions. The fluctuations of rotation rates of the inner ring affected the dynamic stability of the cage and aggravated the impact and vibration of the cage. Rectangular fluctuation of rotation rate causes the most severe vibration and impact of the cage, followed by simple harmonic wave and triangular fluctuation. The findings offer theoretical guidance for enhancing the performance of bearings and ensuring their safe and reliable operation.