Thermal-mechanical coupled interaction of angular contact ball bearing considering combined deformation

A comprehensive thermo-mechanical approach is proposed through an iterative closed-loop process combing simulations and experiments. Coupled deformation induced by speed, temperature, and load, updates the bearing's mechanical model via deformation-displacement relationship between raceway and ball centers. Frictional heat and thermal resistances are calculated. A multi-node thermal network is developed to capture transient thermal and dynamic behaviors. Validation with a 7014 bearing confirms accuracy. Simulations reveal that speed and axial load are the primary factors, causing non-linear increases in heat generation and temperature, with spin friction being the dominant heat source. Moreover, radial and moment loads thermally exacerbate the ball-outer raceway squeezing phenomena reducing load-carrying capacity. The complex influence of structural parameters highlights the importance of thoughtful design for reliable operation.