Due to global CO2 emission reductions and fuel efficiency regulations, the trend toward transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) has accelerated. Consequently, the problem of EV failures has become a focal poin...
Due to global CO2 emission reductions and fuel efficiency regulations, the trend toward transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) has accelerated. Consequently, the problem of EV failures has become a focal point of active research. The parasitic capacitance generated during motorshaft rotation induces voltage that deteriorates the raceway and ball surfaces of bearings, causing electrical damage in EVs. Despite numerous attempts to address this issue, most studies have been conducted under high viscosity lubricant and low load conditions. However, due to factors such as high-speed operation, rapid acceleration and deceleration, motor heating, and motor system–decelerator integration, current EV applications have shown diminished stability in lubrication films of motor bearings, thereby leveraging the investigation to address the risk of electrical damage. This study investigates the electrical damage to rolling bearing elements in EV motor drive systems. The experimental analysis focuses on the effects of electric currents and operational loads on bearing integrity. A test rig is designed to generate high-rate voltage specific to a motor system's parasitic capacitance, and bearing samples are exposed to these currents for specified durations. Component evaluation involves visual inspections and vibration measurements. In addition, a predictive model for electrical failure is developed based on accumulated data, which demonstrates the ability to predict the likelihood of electrical failure relative to the duration and intensity of current exposure. This in turn reduces uncertainties in practical applications regarding electrical erosion modes.