Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWMThe project developed a simulation method for predicting the service life of rolling bearings in contact with hydrogen.
Numerical modeling for predicting the service life of lubricated rolling contacts under the influence of hydrogen
Completed research project
Project description
Premature failure of rolling bearings due to hydrogen-induced damage had been a serious problem with drastic economic consequences, affecting bearings in numerous applications such as wind turbines. The aim of CoLifeHy was to enable quantitative life predictions for bearing components exposed to an increased risk of hydrogen-assisted rolling contact fatigue (HARCF).
To achieve this, the project developed numerical simulation models based on extensive experimental analyses. Hydrogen diffusion in rolling bearing steel, a complex phenomenon dependent on material behavior, machining, and surface condition, was modelled as a function of contact stress–induced diffusion, hydrogen concentration, trap density, and internal stresses. A comprehensive experimental program complemented the numerical work: material properties were determined on hydrogen-loaded samples, fatigue tests on hydrogen-charged roller bearings illustrated the influence of hydrogen content on service life, and precise hydrogen analyses quantified the actual hydrogen uptake.
Transfer of project results to the following Fraunhofer IWM R&D services for companies:
- Modeling of hydrogen diffusion in rolling bearings
- Material modeling of 100Cr6 rolling bearing steels
- Experimental testing of rolling bearings for hydrogen applications
