Analysis on Operating Clearance of Matched Single Row Tapered Roller Bearings for Wind Turbine Main Shaft

  Introduction  The main shafting structure with double supports of single row tapered roller bearings has been widely used in wind turbines, and determining the appropriate bearing operating clearance is crucial for the reliable operation of bearings and the main shafting.

  Method  A dynamics analysis model was established focusing on the main shafting of a medium speed permanent magnet wind turbine, incorporating the hub, main shaft, and both upwind and downwind bearing. The variation trends of bearing raceway life, load area, and maximum contact stress under different axial clearances were calculated.

  Result  The ideal axial operating clearance range of matched single row tapered roller bearings has been identified as −0.74 ~ −0.3 mm.

  Conclusion  The research results have significant implications for the reliable operation of bearings and main shafting, providing a method and reference for determining the axial operating clearance of matched single row tapered roller bearings.