Optimization of partially crowned roller profiles for tapered roller bearings

The roller profile plays a key role in the overall performance of roller bearings. In traditional profile design for roller bearings, the roller profile was often analyzed in terms of the bearing performance, particularly the fatigue life. However, the bearing dynamic stiffness and fatigue life were seldom considered simultaneously in the design of Tapered roller bearings (TRBs). Among the available roller profiles, the partially crowned roller profile has been acknowledged as one of the best from the viewpoint of the bearing fatigue life and stiffness characteristics. This paper presented a design optimization for the partially crowned roller profile to improve the performance of TRBs. Two profile parameters of rollers employed for TRBs including the central flat length and crown radius were investigated. The optimal design parameters for the roller profile were obtained in consideration of both bearing fatigue life and stiffness. The proposed design approach was useful and applicable for further geometrical optimization, manufacturing, and engineering application of rolling bearings.