Ensuring reliable operation of the hydraulic unit through the laws of contact hydrodynamics

Abstract

The article discusses the basic laws of contact hydrodynamics, which studies complex phenomena occurring in the lubricating layer separating the elastically deformable surfaces of various parts, and thus solves the complex problem of hydrodynamics, elasticity theory, thermodynamics, rheology of lubricants and materials science. For a long time, contact hydrodynamics was considered a secondary direction in hydraulic engineering, however, the main aspects of contact hydrodynamics allow determining the thickness of the lubricating layer in the elastic metal-plastic segments of the hydraulic unit bearings, ensuring the reliability and durability of their operation. Thus, contact hydrodynamics allowed us to gain a positive experience of long-term operational tests of elastic metal-plastic segments in the supports of hydraulic units of the largest hydroelectric power plants. In addition, contact hydrodynamics solved the problem of transferring all hydraulic units of large hydroelectric power plants of the country from rigid babbit supports to elastic composite ones; and all newly built hydro generators should be equipped with elastic segments of a new design.