Frictional Analysis of MoS2 Coated Ball Bearings: A Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

A brief review of finite element contact and friction theory is presented for low-speed bearing operations. A three-dimensional finite element model is developed to realistically characterize the friction experienced by a coated ball bearing element. The finite elements results, which are obtained for various normal loads and ball materials, are verified using Hertzian contact theory and previous experimental tests performed by the authors. From the results, general trends for the frictional behavior of coated bearing surfaces are established and implications to the field of controls, as applied to precision positioning and tracking instruments are discussed.