MAGNETIC-FLUX DENSITY DISTRIBUTION ON THE TRACK SURFACE OF ROLLING-ELEMENT BEARINGS - AN EXPERIMENTAL AND THEORETICAL INVESTIGATION

This paper brings out the theoretical model to determine the developed magnetic flux density on the track surfaces of inner race, outer race and rolling elements of a rolling-element bearing operated under the influence of electric current. The flux density, analytically determin ed, is compared with that of the flux density developed on the track s urface of races and rolling elements of the bearings tested on the bea ring test-up under the influence of electric current. Also, the residu al magnetic flux density on the damaged bearings of motors and alterna tors has been measured and the theoretical model is used to determine the amount of current flow through the damaged bearings. The current f low through the bearings, thus established, has been compared with tha t of the current evaluated by the measurement of shaft voltage and bea ring resistance.