Rolling bearing lubrication at low temperature

Abstract: Problems connected with rolling bearings at low temperatures are high starting and running friction, concerns about the presence of a lubricating film and the degree of roller slip at low-temperature start-up. Also, questions have been raised whether the high shear stresses in a grease sheared at low temperature could cause thickener degradation. Papers A - C deal with low temperature starting and steady state friction torque of cylindrical roller bearings, whereas paper D is about base oil replenishment at -20 to +20°C. Paper E contains measurements of the limiting shear stress-pressure coefficient at temperatures from -20 up to +110°C, a parameter that may be of importance to high friction and pitting damage in machine elements. Paper F contains a theoretical analysis of roller slip, surface shear stresses and bearing friction. Paper G investigates the low and high temperature shear stability of lubricating greases.