Simulation and Experimental Study on Crack Propagation in Slewing Bearing Steel

Abstract

The study investigated the propagation characteristics of surface-initiated cracks in slewing bearing steel and analyzed the influence of initial crack length and orientation on crack propagation. A cohesive zone model incorporating continuum damage mechanics was established to simulate crack propagation under rolling contact cyclic loading. Rolling wear and contact fatigue tests were conducted using a rolling contact fatigue test machine to analyze crack propagation under different load cycle numbers. By comparing simulation results with experimental outcomes, the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis was validated.