Bearing the Test of Time: Analyzing the Evolution of a Tapered Roller Bearing from 1952 to 2022

Rolling element bearings play a crucial role in mechanical systems. Over the decades, innovations in steelmaking, heat treatment, and manufacturing have greatly improved their performance. Evolution in steelmaking practices alone have resulted in significant advancements in rolling element bearing rolling contact fatigue life. Heat treatment process have not dramatically changed in the past 50 years; however, advancements in controls and understanding of the application have driven safety factors lower. This study examines a range of metrological and metallurgical attributes of tapered roller bearings from 1952 and 2022. We highlight differences in materials, heat treatments, and manufacturing methods, and discuss their potential impact on service life and reliability.