Optimization of texture geometry for a rotating ring to maximum load-carrying capacity

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to maximize the load-carrying capacity (LCC) of a rotating ring, a numerical model optimizing both the surface and bottom shape of its surface textures is proposed. Design/methodology/approach The Reynolds equation is used to evaluate the film pressure and LCC obtained by integrating the film pressure is set as the objective function. Around the center of the computational domain, radial lines with an equal angle between adjacent ones are produced and the surface contour of textures is obtained by connecting the endpoints using a spline curve. The bottom profile is then obtained by connecting the endpoints of two vertical lines at the circumferential ends of textures. Lengths of these lines are set as design variables and genetic algorithm is used to solve optimization models. Findings Results show that optimum textures have an “apple-like” surface contour and a “wedge-like” bottom profile, which are both expressed by smooth spline curves. Optimum wedge-bottom textures generate higher LCC than optimum flat-bottom textures. Moreover, the optimum textures have the highest LCC compared with optimum grooves proposed previously, which validates the practical value of the current optimization model. Originality/value This work presents a comprehensive optimization method of texture geometry, which provides a new idea of the design of surface textures.