Dr. Grebe and Dr. Buse invite scientific contributions as guest editors of “Lubricants” for a special issue on the subject of rolling bearings

Although the rolling bearing has been a machine element used for centuries, it has become increasingly important in recent years.

New challenges arise here, particularly in connection with electric powertrains:

  • The increasingly higher speeds of electric motors in the automotive sector (currently up to 18,000 rpm) place new mechanical demands on the bearings.
  • Noise generation is becoming increasingly relevant in combination with comparatively quiet electric motors.
  • The presence of electric currents in the bearing, caused among other things by frequency converters, poses the risk of electrical breakdown  between rolling elements and running surfaces (electroerosion). In the case of electrically conductive lubricant, this can also be damaged.

This is accompanied by new challenges for testing technology. Life tests and validations must be adapted to the new requirement profiles. The FE8 and FE9 test rigs established here, for example, no longer map the speed ranges now required.

Lubricants must also meet the increasing demands in terms of mechanical and thermal load capacity, while at the same time satisfying the desire for lifetime lubrication as far as possible.

You are invited to submit a scientific paper on the topic of rolling bearings, rolling bearing lubrication or rolling bearing testing technology. Contributions dealing with the listed new requirements for rolling bearings and rolling bearing lubricants are particularly welcome.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/lubricants/special_issues/Roller_Bearings