Measurement of Solid Friction Parameters of Ball Bearings

Abstract : The near static friction behavior of ball bearings and other devices can be described by the author's mathematical model of solid friction. Three or more parameters used in the model need to be defined for a particular bearing that may be employed in a motor/load system design. At present, little or no data are available to define these parameters, and there is also little or no information on the subject of test methods for obtaining solid friction model parameter data. This paper presents the results of some tests performed to measure the solid friction parameters of ball bearings. The test method is described, and typical test data are shown. The method of data reduction is based on the analytical quasi-static model and is described in some detail. Friction model parameter results are presented for a 2-1/2 in. OD duplex bearing pair with preloads in the range from 6 to 36 lb.