Solid-lubricated angular contact ball bearings are widely used in space transmission systems. In low-speed space environments, lubrication failure becomes the primary failure mode for these bearings. Accurately predicting lubrication failure can help estimate the lifespan of angular contact ball bearings and guide the operation and maintenance of related equipment. This study proposes a solid-lubricated bearing life evaluation model that incorporates the dynamic transfer process of cage lubrication material. Based on rolling bearing statics analysis and Archard theory, wear due to multi-dimensional loads are incorporated including axial load, radial load and overturning moment. Additionally, a lubricant transfer rate coefficient and a sensitivity factor is introduced to characterize the formation and evolution of the lubricant film on the raceway surface due to self-lubricating materials, and the life evaluation model is established. The model effectiveness is validated through existing experimental data, and sensitivity analysis is conducted. The results demonstrate that the proposed model effectively evaluates the lifespan of solid-lubricated bearings in low-speed space environments, and provides guidance for operating condition optimization and bearing design.

Solid-lubricated bearing, self-lubricating cage, lubrication failure, angular contact ball bearing