Prediction of fatigue limit of journal bearings considering a multi-axial stress state

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the applicability of the quadratic failure hypothesis (QFH) on journal bearings coated with a white metal sliding layer on the prediction of safe and unsafe operating conditions. The hypothesis covers operation conditions under static and dynamical loading. Design/methodology/approach Material tests and elastohydrodynamic, as well as structural, simulations were conducted to provide the required input data for the failure hypothesis. Component samples were tested to verify the results of the QFH. Findings The load bearing capacity of journal bearings was analysed for different operating conditions by the use of the QFH. Results allow for the identification of critical and non-critical loading conditions and are in accordance with component test results. Originality/value Today’s design guidelines for journal bearings do not consider a multi-axial stress state and actual stress distribution. The applied hypothesis enables consideration of multiaxiality inside the sliding surface layer, as well as determining the location of bearing fatigue due to material overload.