Worm gearbox bearing life prediction

Abstract

Industrial gearboxes are designed for minimum 3 to 5 years of life considering normal working conditions. Theoretical life of gearbox system can be predicted by calculating the life of individual components of the gearbox like bearings, coupling and gear-pair. There is significant amount of research work done on estimating individual component life perdition however combined life prediction of a gearbox is a quite complex phenomenon. The challenge in developing a single life prediction model for variety of gearboxes available in today’s market. There is a huge variety in their types, sizes, costs, application conditions (indoor, outdoor, marine, aerospace), safety requirements (domestic to hazardous). Providing a common solution that address all these is near to impossible. Major cause of early gearbox failure is wrong selection for application, improper installation, contaminants and excessive shock and impact loads. Vibration measurement gives an early indication of failure of rotating parts in gearbox which are primarily bearings and gear-pair. This research focuses on step by step approach to calculate the life of bearings in a gear box and gearbox life prediction models. The methodology followed can be used for other types of industrial gearboxes.