Elastohydrodynamic Rotational Lubrication Analysis on the Multi-Body Dynamic Properties of Journal-Bearing Systems

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the properties of elastohydrodynamic rotational lubrication analysis on journal-bearing systems. To simulate elastohydrodynamic lubrication on journal-bearing systems, the Elasto-Hydro-Dynamic (EHD) solver is combined with the Multi-Body Dynamic (MBD) solver to create MBD virtual environment with lubricant. The hydrodynamic lubricant is governed by using the Reynolds equation, whereas the elastic contact is governed using Greenwood and Tripp theories. The simulation is performed by changing the operating conditions such as the speed, load, and clearance between two surfaces. One can find these parameters’ effects such as film thickness, hydrodynamic pressure, and friction. The result shows that the friction induced by shaft speed is similar to the Stribeck curve on mixed lubrication regime. Consequently, the clearance, speed, and load will not only affect the friction but also affect the hydrodynamic pressure and film thickness.