Estimation of Friction for a Hydrodynamic Sliding Bearing for the Turbulent Regime From Single-Phase and Two-Phase Fluid Flow Behaviour

Abstract

The hydrodynamic plain bearing relies on the generation of a lubricant film through the rotational movement of the journal. As the journal rotates, it creates a layer of lubricant between the bearing and journal surfaces. This lubricant film separates the two surfaces, preventing direct contact and minimizing friction and wear. The high speeds can lead to severe conditions such as cavitation due to rapid oil evaporation, which introduces a new phase into the flow. In this study, it is anticipated that a two-phase flow will occur through the shaft-bushing conjunction because of the rupture of the lubricating film near the contact outlet. Pressure disturbances above these rupture zones may induce vapor-cavity formation at a small scale. A numerical analysis was conducted by solving Navier–Stokes continuity equations and vapor-transport equations. The k-epsilon model was used to analyze friction at the fluid-bearing interface for the turbulent regime. The results indicate that higher flow velocity values and pressure were observed in the case of two-phase flow compared to one-phase flow.