Mathematical modelling of elastic waves in bearing raceways: the forward and inverse problem

Rolling element bearings are vital machine components for any application involving rotating machinery; hence, being able to quickly and efficiently detect and diagnose damage in its
incipient stages is paramount from an industrial, economic and health and safety point of
view. Traditionally, methods for condition monitoring of rolling element bearings have been based upon signal processing methods and very limited mathematical and physical modelling. In the works contained in this thesis, we propose a new method for condition monitoring
of rolling element bearings based upon mathematical modelling of the elastic waves in the bearing raceways. From this, we hope to establish the limits of what can be measured and extracted from data and provide a more detailed account of the stresses inside a bearing raceway due to defects.