The Lubrication of the Roller-Rib Contacts of a Radial Cylindrical Roller Bearing Carrying Thrust Load

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Abstract
It is generally assumed by designers that cylindrical roller bearings can only be used to carry radial loads. However, there are a number of applications where, either through accident or design, both radial and thrust loads are successfully carried. For example, the bearings in commercial vehicle gearboxes frequently carry thrust loads. The mechanism of lubrication under these conditions is not fully understood. However, it is now accepted that running-in of the roller end and rib contact is very important. During this period, excessive thrust loading can result in rib scuffing. Experimental work has been carried out to investigate scuffing during running-in and to determine criteria to assist in bearing design. Various possible mechanism of roller-rib lubrication are investigated and it is proposed that a hydrodynamic wedge is created by the combined effect of roller skew and rib wear.