Lubricant Feeding Environment and Enhancement with Reducing Friction
Abstract:
The performance of hydrodynamic journal bearings is significantly influenced by the conditions under which the lubricant is supplied. However, many existing studies tend to overlook these factors, often generalizing their impact on bearing performance. This article presents a comprehensive thermo-hydrodynamic analysis that takes lubricant supply conditions into account. The study involves a numerical solution of the generalized Reynolds equation, along with the energy equations governing the lubricant film and heat transfer within the bearing bush. Special attention is given to the phenomena occurring within and around the grooves, as well as in regions where the lubricant film experiences rupture. The investigation assesses the effects of various variables, includ ing lubricant feed pressure, temperature, groove length ratio, groove width ratio, and the number of grooves (single or twin), on bearing performance across a wide range of conditions. The results are consistent with exist ing experimental data, validating the accuracy of the model in capturing these phenomena. The study concludes that optimizing lubricant supply conditions can significantly enhance bearing performance.
