Multi-station rolling bearing test rig (MPWP), FE9 test rig

The multi-station rolling bearing test rig (MPWP) is a multifunctional test rig for testing rolling bearing lubricants or rolling bearing materials. Different types of test heads can be installed on the test stand to represent different load spectra.

In all variants, the test bearings are loaded by means of axially preloaded disk springs and driven by a frequency-controlled three-phase asynchronous motor. In addition, the probes can be heated to temperatures of up to 200 °C via heating elements. Each test head is individually monitored for temperature and friction torque development and can be controlled separately.
With the so-called “FE8 shrink head”, the test rig allows cost-efficient preliminary testing for the more complex rolling bearing lubricant testing on the FE8 test rig (DIN 51819) and investigations of the lubricating grease operating life in accordance with DIN 51821.
Test bench parameters
Normal force 1,500 to 4,500 N on FE9 probe, 5,000 N – 30,000 N on FE8 screening probe
Speed 45 – 1500 1/min or 180 – 6000 1/min
Movement types Rolling
Lubrication conditions Typically grease lubrication (elastohydrodynamics)
Temperature control Circulating lubrication 25 – 100 °C (FE8 oil test), grease tests up to 200 °C
Measured variables Continuous friction torque measurement of the drive shaft, temperature at the back of the bearing
Specimen Angular contact ball bearing 7206 (FE9); axial cylindrical roller bearing 81206, angular contact ball bearing 7306, tapered roller bearing 31306 (FE8)
Friction conditions Dry; boundary and mixed friction (initial lubrication)
Measured variables Wear; temperature at bearing back in preparation
Contact geometry Point contact

Detail sketches