Abstract Ceramic rolling elements of hybrid bearings may initially include surface imperfections. In order to provide reliable operation of a bearing, the criticality of such imperfections under rolling contact fatigue is examined by defining them as Star features: intersecting semi-elliptical surface cracks. Parametric study is conducted using Finite Element Method and discussed with help of previously published experimental observations. The effects of the Star feature morphology and configuration, contact pressure and crack face friction are investigated in terms of stress intensity factors. Possible crack propagation scenarios are explained in the present study.

中文翻译：

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模拟滚动和滑动接触下氮化硅表面缺陷的临界性

摘要 混合轴承的陶瓷滚动体最初可能包括表面缺陷。为了提供轴承的可靠运行，通过将此类缺陷定义为星形特征：相交的半椭圆表面裂纹来检查滚动接触疲劳下此类缺陷的严重程度。参数研究是使用有限元方法进行的，并在先前发表的实验观察的帮助下进行讨论。根据应力强度因子研究了星形特征形态和配置、接触压力和裂纹面摩擦的影响。本研究解释了可能的裂纹扩展情况。