Process for producing a rolling bearing cage, in particular for large rolling bearings, and apparatus for carrying out the process

A process for producing a rolling bearing cage for a rolling bearing, comprising:

• forming a rolling bearing cage, the rolling bearing cage consisting of a steel strip, the steel strip having defined therein a plurality of openings, with each opening configured to receive one rolling body therein, wherein the steel strip is shaped into a ring after the openings are formed therein;
• heating the steel ring to a temperature above a predetermined minimum temperature required for thermal coating the ring with a powder consisting of a thermoplastic polymer, wherein the heating is performed by an alternating field of an induction coil formed in an annular manner and arranged concentrically inside the steel ring;
• dipping the steel ring into a fluidized bed containing the powder for a predetermined period of residence time;
• during the residence time of said dipping:
• coating the heated steel ring with a continuous coating by causing the heated steel ring to melt a portion of the powder adjacent the steel ring in the fluidized bed such that the melted portion of powder adheres to the dipped surface of the steel ring and forms the continuous coating disposed thereon;
• shaking the steel ring to avoid local accumulation of the powder on the steel ring;
• and
• removing the coated steel ring from the fluidized bed at the expiration of the residence time.