Static and heat transfer analysis of linear model mock-up bearing for thermo-mechanical loading application

Precise measurement of parameters like static friction, stiffness, deformation, and heat dissipation characteristics is necessary for the design and performance assessment of bearings under thermo-mechanical loads. These elements have a direct impact on bearing longevity and dependability, particularly in high-temperature applications like heavy industrial machinery, power generating, and aerospace. A linear model mock-up bearing (LMMB) has been created and constructed to examine heat transfer performance under various loading scenarios in order to assess these consequences. The findings showed improved heat dissipation across the contact interfaces, with thermal contact conductance values for AISI 4140 raceway, AISI 52100 ball combinations. Furthermore, temperature distribution and deformation properties were represented by numerical simulations utilizing the finite element method (FEM). The setup, designed to mimic the demanding environment of slewing ring bearings, allows for precise control of load and temperature while measuring temperature variations throughout the bearing. By analyzing thermal contact resistance (TCR) at ball-raceway interfaces, this study provides insights into heat transfer mechanisms and their dependence on load and material properties. By increasing the number of balls from 3 to 9 significantly heat transfer from the bottom raceway to the top raceway, due to the increased number of conductive contact paths facilitating more efficient thermal conduction. The findings underscore the importance of considering TCR in bearing design and contribute to a deeper understanding of heat transfer phenomena in large-diameter slewing ring bearings.