Calculation and finite element analysis of the temperature field for high-speed rail bearing based on vibrational characteristics

The complicated temperature environment of the high-speed rail bearing will generate the thermal stress and thermal deformation, which will change the vibrational characteristics of the bearing. If the vibration is serious, it will result in bearing failure and destructive accidents. Thus, the steady temperature field and the relationship between temperature field and the critical speed of the bearing were researched based on the vibrational characteristics in the paper. According to the specific work conditions and structure characteristics of the double row tapered roller bearing assembly, the heat transfer model of high-speed rail bearing was developed. The heat source and the external heat dissipation of the bearing were calculated, the reasonable boundary conditions of lubrication were set, and then the finite element model was established in ANSYS. According to four different distribution methods of heat source, the temperature field of the inner ring, outer ring and rollers were simulated and analyzed. Comparing the four different results, a reasonable distribution method of the heat source was put forward. Finally the effects of steady temperature field on critical speed of high-speed rail bearing were discussed. The simulation results showed that the bearing temperature distribution was basically consistent with the actual working conditions. The steady temperature field has stronger effect on vibration mode of low-order critical speed then high-order critical speed of bearing. The results of this study provide a basis of vibration characteristics for the use and optimal design of high-speed rail bearing.