Experimental validation and contact behaviour analysis of slewing ring thrust ball bearings with FEA simulation

Understanding the contact behaviour of slewing-ring thrust ball bearings is essential for accurate predictions of load distribution and evaluations of static and dynamic load capacity. Applying Hertz's theory to non-standard slewing ring bearings presents unique challenges due to their complex geometries and difficulties in achieving uniform surface finishes, leading to significant deviations from actual stress. This study addresses these limitations by comparing experimental results, numerical results, and the Hertz theory. The analysis considers three Hertz contact configurations between the bearing ball and the raceway. The results reveal significant deviations from the experimental values. To determine the cause of these variations, the friction coefficient between the ball and the raceway is determined using the gravitational method by varying the number of balls. Uneven load distribution across balls in slewing ring bearings under mechanical loads is exposed by friction coefficient measurement. To further explore, load-deformation experiments are conducted on the LMMB by placing varying numbers of balls and their positions. Results expose variations in load-taking behaviour among the balls, emphasizing the critical influence of contact area load distribution.