Distribution of loads in the large size bearing – problems of identification

Original scientific paper Large diameter slewing bearings used in open cast machines are made of unhardened raceways. As a consequence the major wear is caused by the plastic deformations. Loads acting on the rolling elements of the bearing depend on the load transferred through the bearing itself and on the superstructure and undercarriage components stiffness. As a consequence of the plastic wear, the load distribution in the bearing is changing. The object of investigations was slewing bearing of the stacker-reclaimer LZKS 1600 which operates on the coal homogenization yard in open cast mine Belchatow, Poland. Numerical and experimental research was carried out with the purpose to determine the influence of the superstructure and undercarriage stiffness on the ball loads in the new bearing after a short operation time. Moreover, the load distribution in terms of plastic wear was determined.