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COMPREHENSIVE DYNAMIC STUDY OF CAGES using groundbreaking STABILITY MAPS

EXCLUSIVE APO-GEE ENGINEERING OFFERING  

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Three typeS of cage behavior

A ball bearing cage can exhibit three types of behavior: stable, jostled (agitated), or unstable. 

 

It is crucial to understand that an unstable ball bearing cage can have severe consequences on the overall performance of the bearing, the mechanical system, or the assembly. 

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The instability of the cage can lead to unpredictable vibrations, increased friction, and premature failure of the bearing.

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Therefore, thorough analysis and optimization of ball bearing cage stability are of utmost importance to ensure the reliability and longevity of critical systems in various industries, particularly in demanding aerospace & defense applications.

 

Despite being documented for the past 50 years, the phenomenon of cage instability has remained poorly understood and lacked a definitive solution. Until now.

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The unique concept of STABILITY MAPS

We offer a specialized engineering service focused on analyzing the dynamic behavior of ball bearing cages. 

 

Based on a deep understanding of the complex dynamics of the cage instability phenomenon, and using advanced computational methods and simulation techniques, unique in the world, we can provide a comprehensive analysis of the cage dynamical behavior.

 

In particular, we are implementing an innovative technique based on the construction of original « stability maps », designed for addressing ball bearing cage instabilities.

What we do in concrete terms

For a given bearing or bearing assembly, we perform the following activities:

 

  • Comparing the three possible types of cage behavior: stable, jostled, and unstable. The characterization is performed according to
     

    • the motion of the center of the cage

    • balls-cage forces

    • the resultant forces applied to the cage

    • the friction torque.

 

  • Based on the different cage behaviors, definition of stability maps that will summarize the behavior of the cage based on the friction level within the bearing. The stability maps shall notably take into account

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    • the speeds

    • the intensity of the preloads

    • the possible misalignment

    • the geometry of the cage and the related tolerances

    • the lubrication conditions.

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VALUE

Stability maps aim to optimize the performance and reliability of ball bearing cages, and consequently, the bearings themselves, enabling engineers to design reliable mechanisms and assemblies.

 

Specifically, stability maps allow for:

 

  • Identification of cage designs that are either satisfactory or problematic in terms of dynamic instability under given conditions.

  • Understanding the influence of friction on cage performance, based on operating conditions and cage design.

  • Highlighting stability zones, their extent, and evaluating the potential risk of unstable behavior.

  • Assessing how selected tolerances, preloads, and possible misalignment impact cage behavior.

  • Understanding why optimal lubrication may not be sufficient to guarantee stability.

 

With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we provide accurate assessments and valuable insights to elevate your engineering solutions.

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