Experiments and models for the thermal response of railroad tapered-roller bearings

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Experiments and models for the thermal response of railroad tapered-roller bearings

Tarawneh, Constantine M. / Cole, Kevin D. / Wilson, Brent M. / Alnaimat, Fadi

The need to understand and quantify the heat transfer paths within tapered-roller bearings is of great importance in the railroad industry since bearing cup temperature measurement is the primary tool utilized in the removal of distressed bearings from service. Experiments were performed to acquire temperature histories at several locations on a stationary bearing subjected to heat sources imbedded in two rollers. The experimental results were compared to zero- and first-order thermal models to estimate overall heat transfer coefficients from the bearing. The results presented here can be used to explain some of the mechanisms that lead to overheating of tapered-roller bearings. The value of the theoretical modeling performed in this study, and any future finite element modeling to follow, lies in the undisputed fact that simulations are the most economical means of obtaining prompt answers regarding the thermal behavior of tapered-roller bearings in service. Once these models have been utilized to thoroughly investigate a scenario of interest, carefully planned experiments can be conducted to verify the theoretical predictions. The aforementioned will greatly reduce the number of tests performed which will save the investigator time and effort while cutting down on costs.