Open AccessInfluence of finite element mesh size on the carrying capacity analysis of single-row ball slewing bearing
Author(s) -
Peter He,
Qinrong Qian,
Yun Wang,
Hong Liu,
Erkuo Guo,
Hua Wang
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
advances in mechanical engineering/advances in mechanical engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.318
H-Index - 40
eISSN - 1687-8140
pISSN - 1687-8132
DOI - 10.1177/16878140211009030
Subject(s) - finite element method , bearing capacity , structural engineering , carrying capacity , ball (mathematics) , bearing (navigation) , contact area , deformation (meteorology) , engineering , materials science , computer science , mathematics , composite material , geometry , ecology , artificial intelligence , biology
Slewing bearings are widely used in industry to provide rotary support and carry heavy load. The load-carrying capacity is one of the most important features of a slewing bearing, and needs to be calculated cautiously. This paper investigates the effect of mesh size on the finite element (FE) analysis of the carrying capacity of slewing bearings. A local finite element contact model of the slewing bearing is firstly established, and verified using Hertz contact theory. The optimal mesh size of finite element model under specified loads is determined by analyzing the maximum contact stress and the contact area. The overall FE model of the slewing bearing is established and strain tests were performed to verify the FE results. The effect of mesh size on the carrying capacity of the slewing bearing is investigated by analyzing the maximum contact load, deformation, and load distribution. This study of finite element mesh size verification provides an important guidance for the accuracy and efficiency of carrying capacity of slewing bearings.