Investigation of effect of surface failures on inner and outer race of bearing on vibration spectrum

The rolling element bearing is an important element used in rotating machinery. The performance of any mechanical system depends on condition of the bearing. Hence, to avoid failures condition monitoring of rolling element bearings is essential. In the present study, effect of surface failure on inner and outer race of bearing on vibration spectrum is proposed. The vibration spectrum is acquired for healthy bearing and bearing with surface failure failures on outer and inner race of bearing. The experimental study is carried out with various defect sizes on inner and outer race of bearing surface, at various shaft excitation frequencies. Vibration spectrums are acquired using a tri-axial shear type accelerometer (Type AC 102-A, SI.NO.66760) along with the photon+ (Bruel and Kajer) ultraportable dynamic signal analyser. The experimental results are compared with ball pass frequency of inner and outer race. It has been found that the percentage of errors is within permissible limit. Key words - Rolling element bearing, Bearing defect, Bearing characteristics frequencies, condition monitoring.