An Investigation of the Wave Bearing Attenuation Effects on Vibration and Noise Generated by a Gearbox Compared to the Rolling Element Bearings

The attenuation of gear mesh noise and vibration transmission of fluid film wave bearings relative to rolling element bearings was experimentally investigated. Tests were performed using a gearbox that can accommodate both rolling element bearings and wave bearings to support the shaft. Piezoelectric accelerometers and microphones were used to measure the noise and vibration at different locations. It was found that at specific speeds and torques, a significant noise reduction can be obtained when fluid film bearings are used instead of rolling element bearings to support the gearbox shafts.