Near-race ultrasonic detection of subsurface defects in bearing rings

Lucas W. Koester, Craig Zuhlke, Dennis Alexander, Allen J. Fuller, Brent M. Wilson, Joseph A. Turner

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Bearing steel cleanliness is of primary importance because of the potential failures caused by rolling contact fatigue (RCF). Previous work has shown a high correlation between subsurface inclusion size at the fracture surface and fatigue life. Currently, full volume ultrasonic scanning provides a means to quantify steel cleanliness and predict the likelihood that an inclusion is present in the area of interest. However, this method does not guarantee that a given bearing component is defect free in the near-race region. This article provides a method of near-race inspection for the detection of subsurface defects commonly associated with RCF failure. In order to evaluate the technique, measurement references with subsurface defects of known size are produced from finished bearing rings such that the calibration measurements represent the actual part microstructure. These reference parts are needed in ultrasonic calibration measurements necessary for defect sizing on production parts. This work is expected to impact the field of nondestructive testing for components subjected to RCF.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationBearing Steel Technologies, 9th Volume
Subtitle of host publicationAdvances in Rolling Contact Fatigue Strength Testing and Related Substitute Technologies
PublisherASTM International
Pages84-101
Number of pages18
ISBN (Print)9780803175341
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event9th International Symposium on Bearing Steel Technologies: Advances in Rolling Contact Fatigue Strength Testing and Related Substitute Technologies - Tampa, FL, United States
Duration: Nov 17 2011Nov 18 2011

Publication series

NameASTM Special Technical Publication
Volume1548 STP
ISSN (Print)0066-0558

Conference

Conference9th International Symposium on Bearing Steel Technologies: Advances in Rolling Contact Fatigue Strength Testing and Related Substitute Technologies
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityTampa, FL
Period11/17/1111/18/11

Keywords

  • Bearing steel cleanliness
  • Femtosecond laser
  • Laser machining
  • Near-surface inclusions
  • Sub-surface inclusion detection
  • Surface wave scanning
  • Ultrasonic scanning

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Materials Science

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