DE102015205256A1 - Cage for a rolling bearing and method for adjusting a final play of a cage in a rolling bearing - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cage (2) for a roller bearing (1) which has an outer ring (6), an inner ring (7) and a plurality of rolling elements (20) arranged radially between these bearing rings (6, 7), wherein the cage ( 2) consists of a plurality of cage segments (3, 3 ', 3' '), each receiving pockets (15a-15d) for receiving the rolling elements (20), wherein the cage segments (3, 3', 3 '') are formed in such a manner in that in a loose juxtaposition thereof in the circumferential direction of the cage (2) between the adjacent end faces of a first and a last cage segment, a space serving as an end play (13) in the circumferential direction remains, and in the cage segments having at least two different circumferential lengths (4, 4) ') are installed. To increase the operational safety and the operating comfort is provided that the endgame (13) by selecting and combining of the same or different length cage segments (3, 3 ', 3' ') is set, and that in the radial direction of the cage (2) as outer radial clearance (11) effective clearance between the cage segments (3, 3 ', 3' ') and the outer ring (6) is present, in which the cage segments can shift due to forces and / or temperature, so that in addition to the assembly of the Cage (2) set end play (13) by an operational radial displacement of the cage segments into the space formed by the outer radial clearance (11) and the resulting diameter increase of the cage (2) an additional, variable, circumferentially related security endgame is provided.

Description

The invention relates to a cage for a rolling bearing according to the preamble of patent claim 1 and a method for adjusting an end play of a cage in a rolling bearing according to the preamble of the independent method claim.

It is known to form bearing cages for very large rolling bearings, for example for tapered roller bearings of wind turbines, with diameters in the range of 500 mm to over 2000 mm, as segment cages. Such segment cages consist of individual, ring segment-shaped, continuously juxtaposed cage segments each having at least one pocket-shaped or box-shaped receiving area for a rolling body.

While the rolling elements and bearing rings are usually made of steel, the bearing cage or its cage segments is usually made of plastic. Due to the large bearing diameter, which may be more than 4000 mm in future wind turbines, and because of the significantly different thermal expansion coefficients of steel and plastic, it is necessary in particular for large rolling bearings to provide sufficient clearance in the circumferential direction for a segmented bearing cage, in which the Can extend the circumferential length of the segments of the plastic cage in the heating of the bearing to an operating temperature. Such a circumferential clearance can be provided in the form of a defined gap or an intermediate space in the circumferential direction between a first and a last cage segment of the bearing cage with a gapless sequence of the individual segments. From this gap or this gap results in a circumferential clearance, which can be referred to as a so-called endgame of a segment cage.

High static and dynamic loads in rolling bearings of wind turbines in normal operation operating temperatures of 60 ° C to 100 ° C reached for the endgame must be designed. However, in the case of a too large end play, in particular if the rolling bearing is installed in the vertical direction as usual in wind turbines, a so-called stacking or stacking of the loose cage segments may occur during operation. This can cause an unauthorized high noise in the warehouse. Deformations and bearing damage due to heavy abutment of the segments are also not excluded. On the other hand, there is a risk of mechanical stresses, in particular a jamming of the cage between the bearing rings at excessive operating temperatures, if the endgame is designed too small. This can lead to premature wear and a shortened service life of the bearing.

From the EP 1 408 248 B1 a roller bearing cage is known, which consists of several, loosely installed in a roller bearing cage segments made of plastic. Between the adjacent end faces of a last and a first cage segment of the circularly juxtaposed segments remains in the circumferential direction, a gap which can compensate for a temperature-induced expansion of the cage. The gap is sized to give a final clearance, which at room temperature is between 0.15% and 1% of the circumference of a pitch circle of the rolling bearing that extends centrally through the juxtaposed cage segments. This endgame provides a relatively large space in the circumferential direction for the higher thermal expansion of the plastic cage compared to steel.

Thus, for example, in a tapered roller bearing with a diameter of about 2000 mm, an endgame of a plastic segment cage could be provided at room temperature between about 9 mm and 70 mm. Although such a large circumferential gap in the segment cage the risk of jamming is low, but without further action, a violent clashing of loosely arranged cage segments in a vertical mounting position, at least at low temperatures likely.

The DE 11 2009 002 624 T5 shows a rolling bearing with a cage, which consists of a plurality of cage segments, wherein the plurality of cage segments at least a first cage segment having a first circumferential length and a second cage segment having a second circumferential length, wherein the two circumferential lengths differ. The cage segments are arranged in the circumferential direction of the cage radially between an outer ring and an inner ring continuously in succession. Between the cage segment, which is arranged as circumferentially first and the cage segment, which is arranged circumferentially last, is, after the cage segments are arranged in the circumferential direction without gaps, in the circumferential direction an endgame present. By combining the cage segments of different circumferential length, the end play at room temperature to a peripheral range between 0.08% and 0.1% of a Circle that runs through the middle of the cage segments. The cage consists of a set resin mixed with carbon fiber or glass fiber filler. This is intended to reduce the coefficient of thermal expansion of the cage and in particular to correspond to the thermal expansion coefficient of the outer ring and / or the inner ring of the rolling bearing. In addition, it should be prevented by the fact that the cage jammed despite heating a relatively small endgame.

The invention has for its object to present a rolling bearing cage, consisting of several cage segments, in which a circumferential endgear is relatively small and as accurate as possible adjustable. In addition, the cage should be reliable against jamming in the rolling bearing and inexpensive to produce, especially at high temperatures. The cage should also be suitable for installation in a slewing bearing, such as a tapered roller bearing for wind turbines. Another object of the invention is to describe a method for setting a circumferential end play of such a cage.

The invention is based on the finding that a circumferential clearance between individual segments of a circular component loosely composed of segments of certain circumferential lengths depends on the diameter of a circle which runs through the segments which are lined up with one another. By combining segments having only two different circumferential lengths, a circumferential clearance in the form of an endgame can be set very precisely beforehand by a space defined at room temperature between a first and a last segment of the circle. If a temperature-induced change in the circumferential lengths of the individual segments of this previously existing endgame is used up, a further length expansion due to a further increase in temperature can be compensated, provided that the circle on which the segments are lined up, without functional impairment of the component is increased. This circle enlargement is to be made possible with a composite of cage segments plastic cage of a slewing bearing, so that if necessary, an additional endgame, over a provided at room temperature during assembly of the bearing endgame addition, for the expansion of the bearing cage is available.

The invention is therefore based on a cage for a roller bearing, which has an outer ring, an inner ring and a plurality of radially arranged between these bearing rings rolling elements. The cage consists of several cage segments, each having receiving pockets for receiving the rolling elements, wherein the cage segments are formed such that in a loose and continuous juxtaposition thereof in the circumferential direction of the cage between the adjacent end faces of a first cage segment and a last cage segment as a final remains in the circumferential direction serving space, and are installed in the cage segments with at least two different circumferential lengths. To achieve the object, the invention also provides that the end play is set by selecting and combining equal or different length cage segments, and that in the radial direction of the cage effective as external radial play clearance between the cage segments and the outer ring of the bearing is present in which the cage segments can shift due to forces and / or temperature, so that in addition to the set during assembly of the cage circumferential end play by an operational radial displacement of the cage segments into the space formed by the outer radial clearance and the diameter increase caused thereby of the cage an additional, variable, perimeter security endgame is provided.

Under a cage segment, a ring-shaped, separate part of a rolling bearing cage is understood, the circumferential length describes a circular arc. The term circumferential length of a cage segment is therefore not understood to mean its circumference, but rather the length of that circular segment which is related to the circumference of the cage and which is formed by the cage segment. A segment cage is understood as meaning a roller bearing cage which is composed of several individual cage segments.

An endgame of a roller bearing cage consisting of individual cage segments is understood to mean a circumferential clearance which results from a defined gap or a defined gap between an initial and a terminating cage segment of a continuous series of cage segments, wherein the end play at room temperature a certain portion of the circumference of a circle which runs centrally through the juxtaposed cage segments.

In the cage according to the invention, a gap between the end and the beginning of the juxtaposition of cage segments can be relatively narrow and thus a circumferential end play of the rolling bearing cage can be kept relatively small. The drop height of individual cage segments in a vertically mounted in a bearing housing very large bearings can thus also be kept small, so that the effects when stacking the cage segments is minimized during operation.

At the same time there is an increased security against jamming of the cage between the bearing rings even at very high temperatures. This high reliability is achieved in that the bearing cage is formed so that it has a radial guide clearance with respect to the outer ring of the bearing. Accordingly, the cage segments can move radially outward in the direction of the outer ring, if the set endgame is not sufficient in the circumferential direction. During the radial evasive movement of the cage segments, the cage circle diameter, which is available to the cage segments, increases so that the end play expands correspondingly in the circumferential direction. It is therefore not necessary from the outset to provide an excessively large fixed end play in the circumferential direction in order to protect the rolling bearing against possible jamming of the cage at excessive temperatures.

Also, it is not necessary to make the plastic cage with great effort from a special material mixture to change its thermal expansion properties. Rather, the circumferentially related endgame adjusts variably to the longitudinal extent of the bearing cage. The segment cage thus has the necessary clearance in the rolling bearing at the expected operating temperatures, moreover has a security against jamming at excessive temperatures, is quiet in operation, even at lower temperatures, and is relatively inexpensive to manufacture. A further advantage results from the fact that with a radial offset of cage segments, the rolling elements, with a corresponding construction, can start at different locations within their receiving pockets, so that run-in traces are reduced and the wear of the bearing cage is delayed.

According to a development of the cage according to the invention, it is provided that the cage segments are formed by two circumferential webs pointing in the circumferential direction of the cage and by a plurality of connecting webs connecting the circumferential webs, that the peripheral webs and the connecting webs form at least one receiving pocket for receiving a rolling element, and the two circumferentially arranged outer receiving pockets or the only one receiving pocket in the region of the respective end faces of the cage segments are limited by end portions whose respective length are adapted in the circumferential direction of the cage to a predetermined circumferential length of the cage segment.

Thus, a simple, relatively small change in length of a cage segment can be formed at the end regions to provide cage segments having two different circumferential lengths. The segment cages are usually made of plastic and are manufactured in an injection mold. By a simple, small change in the injection mold and the longer of the two Käfigsegmentversionen can be produced inexpensively. In principle, of course, more than two cage segment versions are possible, so cage segments with more than two different circumferential lengths, if this seems reasonable and advantageous.

In order to form a cage segment having a second circumferential length that is greater than a first circumferential length, one of the two end regions of the cage segment may be designed to be elongate. This can be done by a thickening or wall reinforcement of the respective end region, so that the cage segment is extended on one side. For this purpose, only a small one-sided change of the injection mold of the cage segment or a second injection mold is required, which is slightly changed compared to the first injection mold.

Alternatively, it can be provided that, to form a cage segment with a second, compared to a first circumferential length greater circumferential length, both end portions of the cage segment are formed extended. The extension of the cage segment can thus take place on both end faces, wherein the extension on both sides of the cage segment or the injection mold is preferably symmetrical. As a result, the dimensions of the frontal boundaries of the circumferentially of the cage outside receiving pockets for the rolling elements or the only one receiving pocket are the same, and thus the weight distribution of these cage segments is balanced.

It is also possible that at least one circumferentially projecting step is formed to form a cage segment having a second circumferential length greater than a first circumferential length at one of the two end regions or at both end regions. In this embodiment, an end portion or both end portions are not extended over the entire axial length of the bearing cage, but only in sections. This consumes less material for the extension and saves weight.

In addition, it can be provided that the cage segments have radial guides, which are designed as outer ring guides and inner ring guides, by means of which an external radial play relative to the Outer ring and an inner radial clearance relative to the inner ring are limited. Assuming that the cage segments rest at room temperature with their inner ring guides first clearance on the inner ring, by means of the radial guides a maximum, one-sided radial clearance defined with respect to the outer ring of the bearing, which is the cage segments for a displacement radially outward available. From the possible radial offset of the cage segments to the outer ring out a possible increase of the endgame in the circumferential direction follows.

The segmented bearing cage according to the invention is basically suitable for all types, sizes and materials of rolling bearings. Preferably, it will find application as a plastic cage in rolling bearings with more than 500 mm diameter. According to one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the cage segments are used in a vertically installed tapered roller bearing of a wind turbine, the cage segments, due to the gravitational force, clockwise in a position range between 3:00 clock and 9:00 clock at least partially with the Outer ring guides abut clearance on the outer ring of the bearing, as well as rest in a position range between 9:00 clock and 3:00 clock at least partially with the inner ring guides clearance on the inner ring of the bearing, and that the cage segments in the position range between 9:00 clock and 3 : 00 clock are arranged within the outer radial clearance radially outward to the outer ring displaceable due to temperature.

Accordingly, the cage segments of the vertical upper semicircle of the bearing can shift radially outwardly with a temperature increase, especially when the prepared circumferential end play is used up, while the cage segments of the vertically lower semicircle increase gravitational already at room temperature, the endgame. The radial play results in an approximate total of a safety endgame (Sicherheitsendspiel ≈ Radialenspiel × 2π) enlarged endgame compared to an initial state in which all cage segments abut the inner ring and only the pre-set by the inserted cage segments endgame is present. It has surprisingly been found that in a large rolling bearing of a wind turbine, it can result in an additional thermal safety against jamming of the cage of more than 10 ° C.

According to an advantageous embodiment, it may be provided that the end play of the cage in the circumferential direction is less than 1% of the pitch circle circumference of the cage.

In addition, it can be advantageously provided that the outer radial clearance between the radial outside of the cage and the inside of the outer ring is between 0.025% and 0.05% of the pitch circle diameter of the cage.

• – Bereitstellen von ersten Käfigsegmenten mit einer ersten Umfangslänge und von zweiten Käfigsegmenten mit einer zweiten, gegenüber der ersten Umfangslänge größeren Umfanglänge,
• – Festlegen eines gewünschten Endspiels bei Raumtemperatur,
• – Aneinanderreihen von ersten Käfigsegmenten zur Bildung des Käfigs, wobei das sich daraus ergebende Ist-Endspiel größer ist als das gewünschte Endspiel,
• – Messen des Ist-Endspiels des Käfigs und Berechnen der Differenz zwischen dem Ist-Endspiel und dem gewünschten Endspiel,
• – mittels der Endspieldifferenz Bestimmen einer Anzahl von ersten Käfigsegmenten, die der Aneinanderreihung von ersten Käfigsegmenten zu entnehmen sind,
• – Bestimmen einer Anzahl von zweiten Käfigsegmenten, welche in die Aneinanderreihung von Käfigsegmenten einzusetzen sind, um das gewünschte Endspiel einzustellen, und
• – Bilden einer Aneinanderreihung von Käfigsegmenten mit dem gewünschten Endspiel aus der ermittelten Anzahl von ersten und/oder zweiten Käfigsegmenten.

The invention also relates to a method for adjusting an end play of a cage for a roller bearing, which has an outer ring, an inner ring and a plurality of radially arranged between these bearing rings rolling elements, wherein the cage consists of a plurality of cage segments, each having receiving pockets for receiving the rolling elements, wherein the cage segments are designed such that in a loose and continuous juxtaposition thereof in the circumferential direction of the cage between the adjacent end faces of a first cage segment and a last cage segment serving as an endgame in the circumferential direction gap remains, and are installed in the cage segments with at least two different circumferential lengths , The method according to the invention comprises the following steps:

• Providing first cage segments having a first circumferential length and second cage segments having a second circumferential length that is greater than the first circumferential length,
• - determining a desired endgame at room temperature,
• Rowing together first cage segments to form the cage, with the resulting actual endgame being larger than the desired endgame,
• Measuring the actual endgame of the cage and calculating the difference between the actual endgame and the desired endgame,
• Determining, by means of the end play difference, a number of first cage segments to be taken from the row of first cage segments,
• Determining a number of second cage segments to be inserted in the juxtaposition of cage segments to set the desired endplay, and
• - Forming a series of cage segments with the desired endgame from the determined number of first and / or second cage segments.

Since the circumferential end play of the cage should be set relatively small, it is advantageous to make this setting as accurately as possible during the production of the bearing cage. To determine the endgame is a predicted length expansion of the bearing cage in an expected real Operating temperature range based. Furthermore, manufacturing tolerances of the components of the rolling bearing itself can be considered in advance, in particular tolerances of the raceways of the rolling elements and the cage segments.

On this basis, the described method allows adjustment of the endplay with a desired accuracy. This is achieved by making two categories of cage segments of different circumferential lengths, which are assembled individually during assembly of the bearing. Accordingly, only cage segments with the shorter length are initially inserted into the rolling bearing when the cage segments are being mounted at room temperature, with the cage segments bearing against the inner ring in the case of vertical installation without play. With this juxtaposition of cage segments, the remaining actual end play, so the arc length of the gap on the center line of the circle of the cage segments between the end faces of the last and the first cage segment measured, the cage segments were previously lined up continuously and without spacing. The length of the shorter cage segments is preferably designed so that the resulting actual endgame is always greater than the desired endgame. From the difference to the endgame, it is then decided how many of the shorter segments must be taken from the juxtaposition of cage segments, and how many of the longer segments need to be inserted into the juxtaposition of cage segments to achieve the desired endgame. Accordingly, the cage segments are combined and inserted into the rolling bearing.

Typically, a combination of cage segments of both available perimeter lengths will result to achieve the desired end play. In principle, it is of course also possible that the bearing cage composed only of cage segments of a length, if this leads to the desired endgame. It is also possible that cage segments with more than two different circumferential lengths are provided and used.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in several embodiments. It shows:

1 a schematic radial section through a rolling bearing with a segmented cage formed according to the invention,

2 a simplified illustrated cage segment of the cage according to 1 in a radial plan view,

3 a cage segment like that of 2 in a second embodiment, and

4 a cage segment like that of 2 in a third embodiment.

Accordingly, shows 1 an embodiment of a large rolling bearing 1 , For example, a tapered roller bearing for a wind turbine for supporting a rotor shaft in a housing. The rolling bearing 1 has an outer ring 6 , an inner ring 7 and several exemplified as tapered rollers rolling elements 20 on that radially between the outer ring 6 and the inner ring 7 are arranged and not shown raceways of the bearing rings 6 . 7 roll. How the particular 2 to 4 show are the rolling elements 20 in a cage 2 taken spaced apart and guided by this. The cage 2 is formed as a segment cage made of a plastic and of a plurality of first cage segments 3 and / or second cage segments 3 ' consists. The first cage segments 3 have a first circumferential length 4 on, and the second cage segments 3 ' have a second, compared to larger circumferential length 4 ' on. The two circumferential lengths 4 . 4 ' each cover different sized circle segment sections of the cage 2 , The different lengths of cage segments 3 . 3 ' are loosely, continuously and without a distance strung together in a circle. The size of a cage 2 and the circumferential lengths or arc lengths of the individual cage segments 3 . 3 ' refer to a centerline 5 which radially in the middle by the juxtaposition of the cage segments 3 . 3 ' runs.

2 shows a simplified illustrated first cage segment 3 with a first circumferential length 4 in a top view from above. Accordingly, this cage segment has 3 four receiving pockets 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d for receiving rolling elements 20 on, with only a single rolling element 20 is shown. The receiving pockets 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d are essentially by two lateral peripheral webs 16a . 16b , three connecting bridges 17a . 17b . 17c as well as two end areas 18 . 19 formed, wherein the connecting webs 17a . 17b . 17c and end areas 18 . 19 perpendicular to the two peripheral webs 16a . 16b are arranged and connected in one piece with these. The receiving pockets 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d may have in a known manner not shown approaches in which lie the rolling elements and / or where they start.

3 shows a second cage segment 3 ' with a second circumferential length 4 ' which is larger than the first circumferential length 4 , This is achieved in that in the second cage segment 3 ' the right-most pocket 15d through an end area 18 ' is limited, which compared to the end region 19 the very left receiving pocket 15a of the cage segment 3 ' is widened outwardly in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the second circumferential length 4 ' of the second cage segment 3 ' in comparison with the circumferential length 4 of the first cage segment 3 increased.

4 shows another cage segment 3 '' in which the right-most pocket 15d through an end area 18 '' is limited, which also compared to the first cage segment 3 is widened, and its width with the width of the end portion 18 ' of the second cage segment 3 ' according to 3 is identical and, accordingly, the larger, second circumferential length 4 ' having. Compared to the second cage segment 3 ' according to 3 is in this modified, third cage segment 3 '' however, the widened end region 18 '' not axially continuous, but as opposed to two, projecting from the original width paragraphs 21 . 22 educated.

The following are the expansion and movement possibilities of the cage segments 3 . 3 ' of the cage 2 in the assembled rolling bearing 1 explained in more detail:
1 shows the rolling bearing 1 in a horizontal mounting position in a viewing direction 8th on the drawing sheet or the rolling bearing 1 , The raceway of the inner ring 7 is formed obliquely, so that the conical rolling elements 20 during assembly of the rolling bearing 1 on the inner ring 7 to lie down. The differently long first and second cage segments 3 . 3 ' have radial guides that act as outer ring guides 9 and inner ring guides 10 are formed, and by an external radial play 11 as well as an inner radial play 12 are limited. The cage segments 3 . 3 ' lie at room temperature with the inner ring guides 10 on the inner ring 7 or on the raceway of the inner ring 7 without play, ie without inner radial play 12 , Between the adjacent end faces of an initial cage segment 3 ' and a terminating cage segment 3 The juxtaposition of cage segments is a gap 13 formed, as the arc length of the gap between the mutually facing front ends of the respective cage segments 3 . 3 ' on the middle line 5 of the cage 2 is measured. The gap 13 corresponds to an endgame of the juxtaposition of the cage segments, resulting in a circumferential game of Ka 2 which at room temperature is a certain portion of the circumference of a circle passing through the center line 5 the cage segments 3 . 3 ' runs.

To advance a certain desired endgame 13 are in the cage 2 a certain number of first cage segments 3 and a certain number of second cage segments 3 ' combined arranged. To simplify the drawing figure is in 1 just one of the shorter, first cage segments 3 and only the longer, second cage segments, by the way 3 ' designated. This is to be understood as a simplifying example. In a real cage 2 are usually several shorter cage segments 3 and several longer cage segments 3 ' be installed. By putting together cage segments 3 . 3 ' the two circumferential lengths 4 . 4 ' can the final 13 be set exactly. This will be a specific endgame first 13 given as a desired endgame and a sequence of the cage segments formed, which only from the shorter cage segments 3 consists. Then the current actual final is measured and the difference to the desired endgame 13 , which is smaller than the measured actual endgame, determined. Now successively shorter cage segments 3 out of the cage 2 removed and by longer cage segments 3 ' replaced until the desired endgame 13 is reached.

In the preassembled cage 2 with the set endgame 13 results to the outer ring 6 a non-disappearing outer radial play 11 the cage segments 3 . 3 ' , This one-sided radial play 11 is for clarity in 1 exaggerated. In operation is the rolling bearing 1 used vertically in a bearing housing or surrounding construction. As a result, the gravitational force acts 14 with the gravitational acceleration g on the cage segments 3 . 3 ' , Due to the external radial clearance 11 can the cage segments 3 . 3 ' in the vertical lower semicircle of the rolling bearing 1 , so in the Clockwise approximately in a range between 3:00 o'clock and 9:00 o'clock, perform a radial displacement movement. The cage segments 3 . 3 ' wander in this area to the outer ring 6 go back and come with their outer ring guides 9 at this to the plant. This increases the endgame 13 compared to the mounting position.

During operation, the temperature of the rolling bearing increases 1 , so that the circumferential length of the plastic cage 2 due to its compared to the bearing rings 6 . 7 higher thermal expansion disproportionately increased. At first, the final is reduced 13 at normal operating temperatures, so the rolling bearing 1 in normal operation is almost no circumferential play. If the endgame is already exhausted in extreme temperatures, the cage segments have 3 . 3 ' in the vertical upper semicircle of the rolling bearing 1 , ie in the clockwise direction in a range between 9:00 o'clock and 3:00 o'clock, there is still the possibility of a temperature-related radial offset movement to the outer ring 6 perform. Only when this additional safety endgame is consumed and all cage segments 3 . 3 ' on the outer ring 6 would be the maximum available endgame or peripheral game exploited.

Table 1 shows a numerical example of a rolling bearing 1 with a cage diameter of 2000 mm, the term external radial play 11 the radial play of the cage segments 3 . 3 ' to the outer ring 6 , the term security endgame 180 ° an additional endgame in an offset of the cage segments 3 . 3 ' in the range between 3:00 o'clock and 9:00 o'clock and the term Sicherheitsendspiel 360 ° an additional end play with the radial displacement of all cage segments 3 . 3 ' mean. outer radial clearance 11 [mm] Safety endplay 180 ° [mm] Security endgame 360 ° [mm] 0.25 0.8 1.6 0.50 1.6 3.2 0.75 2.4 4.8 1.00 3.2 6.4 Table 1

The data in Table 1 illustrate the surprisingly large influence of a relatively small, compared to the very large cage diameter, external radial clearance 11 the cage segments 3 . 3 ' towards the outer ring 6 of the rolling bearing 1 on the available endgame of the cage 2 , Take, for example, a mean difference between the linear thermal expansion of plastic and steel, ie between the cage 2 and the two bearing rings 6 . 7 of 20E-6 / K, a mounting temperature of 20 ° C and an operating temperature of 80 ° C for the rolling bearing 1 with the cage diameter of 2000 mm, the temperature increase of 60 ° C results in a relative change in the circumference of the cage 2 of 7.5 mm. Accordingly, at least one final would be 13 of 7.5 mm in advance. From Table 1 can now be seen, which additional safety end game through the outer radial clearance 11 is available. An external radial play 11 0.75 mm would, for example, an additional final of 4.8 mm in the displacement of all cage segments 3 . 3 ' to the outer ring 6 enable. With the assumed coefficient of expansion this corresponds to an additional temperature increase of 38 ° C. Accordingly, even at an excessive temperature of 80 ° C + 38 ° C = 118 ° C in operation, the rolling bearing 1 against jamming of the cage 2 protected.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

roller bearing

2

Cage

3, 3 ', 3' '

cage segment

4, 4 '

circumferential length

5

Center line in the circumference circle

6

outer ring

7

inner ring

8th

Viewing direction with horizontal mounting

9

Outer ring guide

10

Inner ring guide

11

External radial play

12

Inner radial play

13

endgame

14

gravitational force

15a, 15b, 15c, 15d

 receiving pockets

16a, 16b

 circumferential lands

17a, 17b, 17c

 connecting webs

18, 18 ', 18' '

First end of a cage segment

19

Second end portion of a cage segment

20

 rolling elements

21

First paragraph at the end 18 ''

22

Second paragraph at the end 18 ''

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 1408248 B1 [0005]
• DE 112009002624 T5 [0007]

Claims (10)

Cage ( 2 ) for a rolling bearing ( 1 ), which has an outer ring ( 6 ), an inner ring ( 7 ) and several, radially between these bearing rings ( 6 . 7 ) arranged rolling elements ( 20 ), wherein the cage ( 2 ) of several cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ), which respectively receiving pockets ( 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d ) for receiving the rolling elements ( 20 ), wherein the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) are formed such that in a loose and continuous juxtaposition thereof in the circumferential direction of the cage ( 2 ) between the adjacent end faces of a first cage segment ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) and a last cage segment ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) as an endgame ( 13 ) remains in the circumferential direction serving space, and in the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) having at least two different circumferential lengths ( 4 . 4 ' ), characterized in that the endgame ( 13 ) by selecting and combining equal or different length cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) and that in the radial direction of the cage ( 2 ) as an external radial play ( 11 ) effective clearance between the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) and the outer ring ( 6 ) of the rolling bearing ( 1 ), in which the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) can shift due to forces and / or temperature, so that in addition to the assembly of the cage ( 2 ) ( 13 ) by an operational radial displacement of the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) into the outer radial play ( 11 ) formed free space and the resulting diameter increase of the cage ( 2 ) an additional, variable, peripheral safety endgame is provided. Cage according to claim 1, characterized in that the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) by two each in the circumferential direction of the cage ( 2 ) pointing peripheral webs ( 16a . 16b ) and by the peripheral webs ( 16a . 16b ) connecting connecting webs ( 17a . 17b . 17c . 17d ) are formed, that the the circumferential webs ( 16a . 16b ) and the connecting webs ( 17a . 17b . 17c . 17d ) at least one receiving pocket ( 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d ) for receiving a rolling element ( 20 ), and that the two circumferentially arranged on the outside receiving pockets ( 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d ) or the only one receiving bag ( 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d ) in the region of the respective front ends of the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) by end regions ( 18 . 18 ' . 18 '' . 19 ) whose respective length in the circumferential direction of the cage ( 2 ) to a predetermined circumferential length of the cage segment ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) are adjusted. A cage according to claim 2, characterized in that (to form a retainer segment 3 ' . 3 '' ) with one compared to a first circumferential length ( 4 ) larger, second perimeter length ( 4 ' ) one of the two end regions ( 18 ' . 18 '' . 19 ) is formed extended. Cage according to claim 2, characterized in that to form a cage segment ( 3 ' . 3 '' ) with one compared to a first circumferential length ( 4 ) larger, second circumferential length (4 ') the two end portions ( 18 ' . 18 '' . 19 ) are formed extended. Cage according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that in order to form a cage segment ( 3 '' ) with one compared to a first circumferential length ( 4 ) larger, second perimeter length ( 4 ' ) at one of the two end regions ( 18 '' ) or at both end regions ( 18 '' . 19 ) at least one circumferentially projecting paragraph ( 21 . 22 ) is trained. Cage according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) Have radial guides, which are used as outer ring guides ( 9 ) and inner ring guides ( 10 ) are formed, by means of which an external radial clearance ( 11 ) relative to the outer ring ( 6 ) as well as an inner radial play ( 12 ) in relation to the inner ring ( 7 ) are limited. Cage according to claim 6, characterized in that the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) are used in a vertically installed tapered roller bearing of a wind turbine, wherein the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ), due to the gravitational force ( 14 ), clockwise in a position range between 3:00 o'clock and 9:00 o'clock at least partially with the outer ring guides ( 9 ) clearance on the outer ring ( 6 ), and in a position range between 9:00 and 3:00 clock at least partially with the inner ring guides ( 10 ) clearance on the inner ring ( 7 ) and that the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) in the position range between 9:00 and 3:00 due to temperature within the outer radial clearance ( 11 ) radially outward to the outer ring ( 6 ) are arranged displaceable towards. Cage according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that Endspiel ( 13 ) of the cage ( 2 ) in the circumferential direction is less than 1% of the pitch circle circumference of the cage ( 2 ). Cage according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the external radial clearance ( 11 ) between the radial outside of the cage ( 2 ) and the inside of the outer ring ( 6 ) between 0,025% and 0,05% of the pitch circle diameter of the cage ( 2 ) is. Procedure for setting a final ( 13 ) of a cage ( 2 ) for a rolling bearing ( 1 ), which has an outer ring ( 6 ), an inner ring ( 7 ) and several, radially between these bearing rings ( 6 . 7 ) arranged rolling elements ( 20 ), wherein the cage ( 2 ) of several cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ), which respectively receiving pockets ( 15a . 15b . 15c . 15d ) for receiving the rolling elements ( 20 ), wherein the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) are formed such that in a loose and continuous juxtaposition thereof in the circumferential direction of the cage ( 2 ) between the adjacent end faces of a first cage segment ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) and a last cage segment ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) as an endgame ( 13 ) remains in the circumferential direction serving space, and in the cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) having at least two different circumferential lengths ( 4 . 4 ' ), characterized by performing the following steps: - providing first cage segments ( 3 ) having a first circumferential length ( 4 ) and second cage segments ( 3 ' . 3 '' ) with a second, opposite the first peripheral length ( 4 ) larger perimeter length ( 4 ' ), - defining a desired endgame ( 13 ) at room temperature, - juxtaposing first cage segments ( 3 ) to form the cage ( 2 ), with the resulting actual endgame being greater than the desired final ( 13 ), - measuring the actual endgame of the cage ( 2 ) and calculating the difference between the actual final and the desired final ( 13 ), By means of the end play difference determining a number of first cage segments ( 3 ), the sequence of first cage segments ( 3 ), - determining a number of second cage segments ( 3 ' . 3 '' ), which are to be used in the juxtaposition of cage segments, to the desired endgame ( 13 ), and - forming a series of cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ) with the desired endgame ( 13 ) from the determined number of first and / or second cage segments ( 3 . 3 ' . 3 '' ).

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