Rolling bearing technology at KTmfk
The rolling bearing is a fundamental invention without which our entire technology-driven daily life would be inconceivable. The significance of the rolling bearing in mechanics is comparable to that of the transistor in electronics. Rolling bearings perform load-bearing and guiding functions in machines, devices, and vehicles of all kinds. Usually unnoticed, they fulfill their function reliably and energy-efficiently.
Since the chair was established—spanning nearly 40 years—the KTmfk has contributed to technical and scientific progress in rolling bearing technology. Research focuses on both the machine element itself and its interactions with the surrounding environment. The research activities are characterized by the close integration of design, simulation, and experimental testing.
Cooperation between Research and Industry
Situated in the immediate vicinity of the globally successful rolling-bearing industry, the KTmfk successfully bridges the gap between theory and practice through close collaboration with industrial companies and research associations. This enables not only a continuous expansion of knowledge and exchange in the field of long-term fundamental research but also the identification and addressing of current practical challenges.
Focus of engineering education
During the master’s program, key aspects of rolling bearing technology are explored in greater depth through two courses: “Rolling Bearing Technology” and “Tribology and Surface Technology.” Thanks to close cooperation with industry experts, the program conveys not only the fundamentals but also the latest research and development findings.
Simulation
The aim of this research—which relies primarily on simulations—is to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms governing the complex rolling bearing system, particularly regarding dynamics and friction behavior. Various simulation approaches are employed, spanning scales from the micro- to the macro-level.
At the micro-level, for instance, individual thermo-elastohydrodynamic (TEHD) contacts are analyzed using a proprietary finite-element-based simulation tool (MFKTriboFEM) to predict tribological behavior. This approach allows for predictions regarding potential wear patterns and enables the design of surface micro-textures for rolling/sliding contacts that are optimized for specific load conditions.
At the macro-level, multi-body simulations specifically developed for rolling bearings provide insight into the dynamics of bearing components and associated parts. Elastic modeling of the cage, for example, enables an analysis of its dynamic behavior. This yields valuable information regarding the cage’s loading, service life, vibration characteristics, and acoustic performance. The insights gained can be incorporated into product development, facilitating continuous improvement of the rolling bearing’s operating characteristics.
Testing
Simulations must always be validated through experiments. Furthermore, regarding rolling-element bearings, theoretical approaches are currently insufficient to describe many effects with adequate precision. Consequently, conducting tests to validate simulations is indispensable in rolling-element bearing technology.
Experimental research at KTmfk involves the development of innovative and sophisticated test rigs. Starting with initial sketches, unique test rig designs are created using state-of-the-art CAD and FE tools. These rigs are manufactured and commissioned in close cooperation with the university’s own workshops and subsequently put to intensive use in KTmfk’s laboratories for experimental research.
Current experimental work focuses on friction in rolling bearings, bearing behavior under centripetal acceleration, and bearing loads and kinematics during small-angle oscillating movements. Additional test rigs enable the investigation of rolling bearings under oscillating loads, as well as the study of novel lubrication and surface concepts. Together with standard testing equipment—such as tribometers and twin-disk test rigs—these specialized test rigs constitute a unique, high-quality technical infrastructure.