Wear in wind turbine pitch bearings—A comparative design study

We tested two types of ball bearings with an outer diameter 750 mm to learn more about the challenges oscillating motions for pitch bearings. The experimental conditions are derived from aero-elastic simulations, long-term wind speed measurements and a scaling method that considers loads angles. As result, parameters relevant represented appropriately, findings transferable other bearing sizes. For parameter sets, severe wear occurred over 90% exposed contact areas after 12 500 cycles. Decreasing number cycles 1250 leads mix 13% wear, 32% mild 55% no apparent pattern. results demonstrate comparatively small amount consecutive can lead wear. A new type showed less selected operating conditions.