Effects of surface roughness and non-Newtonian micropolar fluid squeeze film between conical bearings

Abstract

Based on the micropolar fluid model of Eringen’s and the Christensen’s stochastic theory, the analysis of effects of surface roughness and the squeeze film lubrication problems between conical bearings are presented. The concerned non-dimensional Reynolds equation is solved with appropriate boundary condition in dimensionless form to get the pressure distribution, which is then used to obtain the expression for load carrying capacity, paving the way for the calculation of response time. Computed values of pressure, load capacity and response time are displayed in graphical form. This investigation reveals that the bearing system admits an improved performance as compared to that of a bearing system working with a conventional lubricant. According to the results, the effects of transverse roughness provide an increase in the bearing characteristics as compared to the smooth bearing lubricated with micropolar fluid and whereas the influences of longitudinal roughness yield a reversed trend. The quantifiable effects of rough surfaces and non-Newtonian fluids on bearing performances are more pronounced for the roughness parameter and micropolar parameter.