Axial Bearing Positioning via Interference Fit Pressing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The traditional method for axial positioning of bearings on a shaft journal in compressor elements has a large variation in axial play, which depends on the operator's selection of spacer ring thickness and finishing tolerances of components, leading to potential friction and damage due to unpredictable rotor positioning.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a spacer ring and stepped forcing pieces to set axial play by pressing bearings into specific seats, using an interference fit and nuts to secure inner races, and a cover to lock outer races, allowing precise adjustment of axial play independent of spacer ring thickness and component tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the traditional method of using a spacer ring with rounded thickness is used, then the assembly process is simple, but the axial play varies greatly due to operator selection and component tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs preliminary positioning by pressing the outer race of the first bearing into a seat in the housing during assembly, which pre-determines the axial position. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex post-assembly adjustments and ensures consistent axial play without varying component thicknesses.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the critical parameter from spacer ring thickness to the pressing depth of the outer race into the housing seat. By controlling the pressing distance rather than relying on precise spacer thickness, the system achieves consistent axial play while allowing broader tolerances in individual components.
2Manufacturing precision
If the axial play is set to zero by pressing the rotor body against the housing, then the minimum play is ensured, but the rotor cannot accommodate manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a dynamic positioning system where the rotor can move axially within controlled limits. By allowing the rotor to press against the housing during operation rather than fixing it rigidly during assembly, the system adapts to manufacturing tolerances while maintaining minimum play requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing action during assembly serves as a preliminary positioning step that establishes the minimum play requirement, while the design allows subsequent movement to accommodate tolerances. The outer race is pressed into the seat to establish the boundary condition, but the system remains adaptable within that framework.
3Reliability
If the inner races are clamped between the shaft shoulder and a disk tightened by a screw bolt, then the inner races are secured, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the fixation of multiple inner races into a single operation by pressing them simultaneously against the shaft journal during the bearing assembly process. This merging of operations eliminates the need for separate clamping and tightening steps for each bearing, significantly improving assembly speed while maintaining reliability.
4Reliability
If the outer races are clamped by a cover fastened with bolts, then the outer races are secured, but the housing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The housing seat serves multiple functions: it provides the pressing surface for positioning the outer race during assembly, acts as a retention feature to hold the bearing in place, and defines the axial play limit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate clamping structures, reducing housing complexity while maintaining reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method allows for reproducible and accurate axial play adjustment, minimizing energy consumption and reducing variation in compressor element performance by decoupling play settings from spacer ring thickness and component diameters, thus preventing unwanted friction and damage.
Implementation Method 1
together with an interference fit, affixing a spacer ring and a first bearing to the aforementioned shaft journal, such that the outer race of the first bearing is pressed into a seat in the housing
Implementation Method 2
In order to clamp the inner races of the bearings, use is preferably made of a nut that is screwed up against the inner race of the second bearing on an external screw thread provided on the shaft journal
Implementation Method 3
In order to clamp the outer races against the stop of the housing, use is preferably made of a cover that is screwed tight in the seat of the housing against the outer race of the second bearing
Implementation Method 4
setting the play of the rotor in the axial direction in the housing to zero by keeping the rotor body pressed in the direction of the shaft end concerned with a force
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the axial positioning of bearings on a shaft journal of a rotor whereby the axial play of the rotor in its housing is adjusted by affixing a spacer ring and two bearings with an interference fit such that the outer race is moved axially with respect to the inner race of the same bearing over a distance that is a function of the desired axial play.