Numerical simulation to research the collision and skidding of rolling elements for cageless bearings

Purpose This paper uses numerical methods to investigate the collision and skidding of rolling elements in a cageless ball bearing. This paper aims to analyse the effects of the rotational speed and number of rolling elements on the rolling element collision and skidding. Design/methodology/approach Based on Hertzian theory and tribological theory, the collision contact model of the rolling element was established. Based on the proposed model, the differential equations of motion of the two degrees of freedom rolling element were constructed. The fourth-order Adams algorithm solved the collision contact force between the rolling elements. The sliding velocity between the rolling element and the inner and outer races was calculated. Findings The collision frequency and slip of rolling elements can be reduced by increasing the rotational speed appropriately and reducing the number of rolling elements by one. Originality/value The developed model can reveal the collision and slip characteristics of the rolling elements for cageless bearings. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the design and manufacture of cageless ball bearings.