The Effects of Oil Supply Pressure at Different Groove Position on Frictional Force and Torque in Journal Bearing Lubrication

Abstract

An axial groove is a common supply method for distributing lubricant within a journal bearing. Lubricant is generally fed at a specific supply pressure to ensure that the journal and the bearing surface are separated. Shearing action between lubricant and bearing parts creates friction which contributes to power loss in the bearing. In this study, experimental work was conducted to determine the effect of oil supply pressure at different oil groove positions on torque and frictional force in hydrodynamic journal bearing. The journal bearing test rig with a journal diameter of 100mm and a length-to-diameter ratio of ½ was used. The oil supply pressure was set at 0.2, 0.5 and 0.7MPa. The groove was positioned at 7 different locations of -450, -300, -150, 00, +150, +300 and +450. Measurements of frictional force, torque and friction coefficient were obtained for speed values of 500 and 800rpm at 10 and 15kN radial loads. It was found that oil supply pressure and groove positions had affected the frictional force and torque in journal bearing.