Friction moment calculation method for tapered roller bearings under combined loads

Tapered roller bearings(TRBs) can withstand axial loads, radial loads, and overturning moments. The performance, safety, and efficiency of rotating machinery are directly influenced by the friction moments within the TRBs. However, most current research has relied on empirical formulas that focus on axial loads. Additionally, the friction coefficient between the rollers and the inner ring rib has been defined using simple empirical methods. In actual applications, the loads on TRBs are not purely axial or radial, and simple empirical friction coefficients do not adequately account for the varying lubrication conditions. To address this challenge, this study proposes an improved method for calculating the friction moments of TRB under combined axial and radial loads. This study employs a calculation method for sliding friction coefficients that can model dry, boundary, elastohydrodynamic, and mixed lubrication conditions. To demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method, the friction moments obtained using the existing and proposed methods are compared. Additionally, the influence of TRB structural parameters on the friction moment is discussed. An experimental study is conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The findings provide valuable insights for designing TRB structural parameters to minimize friction moments.