Constructive optimisation criteria to increase bearing service life

For light mechanical structures, a bearing housing cannot be considered as rigid. Thus, rolling bearing rings are elastically deformed under loading and lose their initial cylindrical shape. The load distribution among the rolling bodies is then modified, which therefore affects the bearing life. In order to improve deficiencies in the existing models concerning the load distribution in the case of non-rigid housings, a new calculation model is proposed in the present work. This model takes into account all the constructive parameters that define the housing geometry. Using this model one can improve an existing housing shape or can optimise the design of a new one. The paper presents the results of a detailed, theoretical and experimental research project concerning the effect of the housing geometry on the bearing service life.