Temperature rise of double-row tapered roller bearings analyzed with the thermal network method

Based on generalized Ohm's law, the thermal network model (TNM) is developed for double-row tapered roller bearing lubricated with grease, which is commonly used in high-speed railway. The load distribution and kinematic parameters in bearing are obtained by developing a quasi-static model. The temperature of bearing at different speeds, filling grease ratios and roller large end radius are investigated. The results show that large rotating speed and filling grease ratio result in high temperature rise, especially at roller large end/flange contacts. Besides, an optimal roller large end radius is presented and its mechanism has been explored. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.