A comparative study on the dynamics of high speed spindles with respect to different preload mechanisms

This paper presents the effects of bearing preload mechanisms on the dynamic performance of high speed spindles. The comparisons of two main types of bearing preload-"constant" and "rigid"-mechanisms are provided using a mathematical model as well as experiments. Based on the Timoshenko beam element theory coupled with a nonlinear model of angular contact ball bearings, the dynamics of the spindle shaft, housing, and bearings system is modeled as a nonlinear function of preload mechanism and amplitude, spindle speed, and external cutting loads. The mathematical model of the spindle is experimentally validated by comparing the predicted and measured static displacements, mode shapes, frequency response functions, and natural frequencies under different conditions. The performance of spindles under rigid and constant force preload is investigated systematically using a mathematical model under various conditions. It is shown, among other things, that at high speeds and under cutting loads the rigid preload mechanism is more efficient in maintaining the dynamic stiffness of spindles than constant preload.