Application of High-Frequency Resonance Techniques for Bearing Diagnostics in Helicopter Gearboxes

Abstract

Abstract : The feasibility of the High-Frequency Resonance Technique (HFRT) for defect analysis of rolling-element bearings found in a UH-1 helicopter main transmission was demonstrated. A study was conducted to determine optimum conditions under which to test each bearing. These included accelerometer location, speed, load, housing design and detection frequency. The results provided general testing criteria for each bearing. An analytical and experimental bearing race resonance study was conducted on each bearing. The bearings were then mounted in a test rig and run at various speeds, loads and housing designs. Good bearings and bearings with artificially-induced discrete defects were run.