Rolling bearings do require a negative clearance or preload depending on bearing type, required speed, accuracy and rigidity. The preload determines decisively the performance characteristics such as durability, noise, load capacity, compensation of wear and setting operations of the bearing. As a result, the selection of the preset preload is usually a compromise. And for this reason it would be desirable, if there was an available way to control the preload during operation. By means of an actuator to influence the preload, it is possible to increase the service life of the component and to compensate temperature influences. In addition, the machining accuracy can be increased and a significant contribution to resource efficiency and availability of the machine tool can be achieved.
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