Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to research on optimization of spindle bearing preload based on efficiency coefficient method and provide theoretical guidance for variable preload of intelligent spindle.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on an established thermo-mechanical coupling model of angular contact ball bearing with fix-position preload, temperature rise and axial stiffness of the bearing at different speeds and preload are analyzed, and life of the bearing is estimated by the improved L-P theory. The bearing temperature rise, axial stiffness and life data are standardized, and the preload is optimized by the efficiency coefficient method according to the requirements of operating conditions.
Findings
The optimized preload meets comprehensive requirements of the bearing temperature rise, axial stiffness and life under different operating conditions.
Originality/value
In the past studies, it is rarely reported that temperature rise, stiffness and life of the bearing under thermo-mechanical coupling effect are used as objective functions to optimize preload at different speeds.
Peer review
The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-06-2020-0205/
