Method and apparatus for electric motor assembly with bearing preload

摘要

A press fit machine for assembling an electric motor which includes a hub having an upper bearing and a stator assembly having a lower bearing, includes an upper and lower press fit fixtures for holding the hub and stator respectively in a preloaded condition prior to motor assembly and for a predetermined period of time afterward. The machine press fits the two halves of the motor together while maintaining appropriate preloads on the upper and lower bearings to prevent excess looseness in the bearings or excessive stiffness. The preload ensures that the bearing will function correctly after assembly because it is maintained during a period of time that the glue joining the hub and stator assembly together sets.