The Analysis of Contact Stresses in Rolling Element Bearings

Abstract

A numerical solution is presented which can be used to analyze the complete range of frictionless contact problems found in rolling element bearings. A three dimensional, linear elastic solution to the problem is developed by combining the Boussinesq force-displacement relationships for a half-space with a modified flexibility method. In this manner a stable system of linear algebraic equations in terms of the unknown surface pressures is formed, with no restrictions placed upon either contact symmetry or material connectivity. Several numerical examples of common but hitherto unsolved contact problems prevalent in rolling element bearing applications are also presented.