Design Optimization and Reliability Improvement of Tapered Roller Bearings: A Critical Review

Tapered roller bearings are essential machine parts in cases where there is a combination of radial and axial loads, and their performance depends on internal geometry, load distribution, contact stress, operating conditions, and fatigue properties. From the reviewed literature, it is clear that such parameters as roller diameter, effective length of the roller, pitch diameter, number of rollers, and contact angle may greatly affect bearing life and fatigue properties [2], [3], [7]. It is evident from the review that analytical approach remains effective for load distribution and rating-life evaluation as well as initial optimization, whereas finite-element analysis and dynamics give additional information on contact stress, deformation, roller behavior, and operating conditions [4]–[9]. In addition, optimization procedures have proven their effectiveness in improving bearing life under geometric and strength restrictions [2], [3], [7]. Nonetheless, the literature review also reveals the fact that the methods mentioned are used in isolation. The critical issues such as manufacturing tolerances, roller load distribution, operating conditions, contact behavior, and design limitations are not taken into account all at once. This means that the future work needs to be devoted to the integration of analytical and numerical analysis with the optimization process. Thus, it can be stated that the existing research forms a good basis for the design optimization and reliability improvement of TRBs. An integrated approach, which takes into account bearing geometry, loadings, contact stresses, fatigue life, manufacturing tolerances, and limitations will help design better TRBs.

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