Test rig model development and validation for the diagnosis of rolling element bearings

In the context of condition based maintenance, carrying out diagnosis and prognosis processes is a key. For that purpose the evaluation of the condition of a machine is necessary, for which the development of physical models is useful as the response of the modelled system can be obtained in different operating conditions. In this paper, an electromechanical model for a rotary machine is presented, making special emphasis on the modelling of rolling element bearings. Thus, the response to different damaged conditions is evaluated. The proposed model is validated by comparing the simulation results with experimental signals acquired by tests carried out at different operating conditions. This comparison shows a good agreement as differences less than 0.6 % for the model of the bearing and differences up to the 10 % for the modelling of the rest of the elements are obtained.