Static capacity of a large double row slewing ball bearing with predefined irregular geometry

In order to overcome some shortcomings of the calculation methods described in standards covering rolling bearing capacity, a calculation approach, which is based on a vector description of a bearing geometry is presented. This approach makes it possible to study the influence of multi-row geometry and predefined irregular geometry of the bearing on the contact load distribution. The paper explains a theoretical basis behind the method and describes the work-flow for the calculation of the static capacity of the bearing. The method's applicability is presented through the analysis of a static capacity of a large double row ball bearing in relation to different clearances and irregular geometries of an outer ring. The results show that these have significant influence on the bearing capacity. The analysis also shows that the algorithm is fast and stable enough for everyday engineering work and that it can simulate the effects of clearance and predefined irregular geometry of rings on the static capacity of the bearing. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.