Predicting changes in radial and axial clearances in ball bearings lubricated with low-viscosity liquids

Parts of rolling bearings lubricated with low-viscosity fluids are subject to intense wear of the working surfaces. The bearing life cycle under these conditions depends on the wear rate of the friction surfaces. Therefore, it is important to establish the relationship between the wear rate, the change in the clearances and the duration of work. This paper presents the results of wear tests for rolling ball bearings. After the tests the radial and axial clearances were measured, their changes and the duration of operation were analyzed. Having determined the path of friction, the wear rates of the bearings were calculated based on the values of changes in the radial and axial clearances. The wear rate of the bearing on the axial and radial clearances was plotted against the reduced (equivalent) load. The obtained dependences were approximated with a confidence of at least 98%. The obtained analytical expressions allow us to perform express calculations for changes in the bearing clearances. This will make it possible to forecast the bearing service time, taking into account the wear of the working surfaces under specified conditions, while ensuring correct functioning of the support assembly.