The Measurement of the Radial Stiffness of Rolling Element Bearings under Oscillating Conditions

There is very little information available on the characteristics of rolling element bearings under oscillating conditions. This is because of the difficulty that has been experienced in measuring the relevant characteristics. A rig is described which is very simple in principle and allows the measurement of the radial stiffness of a pair of bearings. For the angular contact bearings tested the levels of damping obtained are larger than previously expected.