Prediction of Ball Motion in High-Speed Thrust-Loaded Ball Bearings

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a computer program used to analyze completely the motion of a ball in a high-speed, thrust-loaded ball bearing. Particular emphasis is paid to the role of the lubricant in governing the forces and moments acting on each ball. Expressions for these forces due to the rolling and sliding of the ball are derived in the light of the latest fluid models, and estimates are also made of the cage forces applicable in this specific situation. It is found that only when lubricant viscoelastic behavior is considered do the theoretical predictions agree with existing experimental evidence.