Riffle-swivel test bench

The Riffel swivel test rig can be used to assess greases for use in wind turbines in permanent-pitch operation. A modified four-point contact ball bearing is tested in cyclic swivel operation with synchronized cyclic axial load under kinematics and surface pressure typical for blade bearing applications. The test bearing is operated in the "permanent-pitch" mode typical for wind turbines at a fixed position on the rolling bearing ring (without movement of the cage insert).

The test rig is equipped with online measurement technology, which makes it possible to resolve the change in rotational resistance due to tribocorrosive-induced raceway damage. A hydraulic pulser is used to apply the axial force and a mechanical crank drive is used for the swivel movement. The tests can be carried out with or without contamination using a NaCl solution to simulate on-shore and off-shore conditions.

Essential test bench data:

Parameters	Nominal value	Unit
Modified bearing	5	Contact points
Maximum surface pressure	3000	N/mm2
Axial force	±23,3	kN
Swivel movement	±4,6	°

Corrugated swivel test rig of the Institute of Tribology and Energy Conversion Machines