The operating characteristics and experimental life estimates for 120.65 mm bore tapered roller bearings of two designs under combined radial and thrust loads were determined. A modified standard bearing design was tested at speeds up to 15,000 rpm. A computer optimized, high speed design was tested at speeds up to 20,000 rpm. Both designs were tested at a combined load of 26,700 N (6000 lb) radial load and and 53,400 N (12,000 lb) thrust load. Advanced helicopter transmissions which require the higher-speed capability of tapered-roller bearings also require higher temperature capability (ref. 2). Thus, materials with temperature capabilities higher than the conventional carburizing steels are required
