Thermoelastohydrodynamic analysis of misaligned bearings with texture on journal surface under high-speed and heavy-load conditions

Abstract

Hydrodynamic journal bearings are used to support the planetary gears in the transmission system of a Geared Turbo Fan engine, and they operate under severe working conditions, such as misalignment, high speed, and heavy load. Surface texture is regarded as an effective approach to improve mechanical properties under severe working conditions. However, the effects of surface texture on misaligned journal bearings under severe conditions have not been well studied. Therefore, a thermoelastohydrodynamic (TEHD) lubricating model with a textured and misaligned journal is presented in this study. Solid deformation, heat transfer between oil and the bearing, and heat convection between air and the bearing are considered in the model. The effects of cavitation and viscosity-temperature are also taken into account. The impacts of surface texture parameters and the misalignment angle on lubricating properties are investigated in the model. Results indicate that the bearing lubricating performance is greatly improved by optimal surface texture considering journal misalignment. The maximum oil film pressure and load-carrying capacity of a journal bearing increase with journal misalignment. Meanwhile, the oil film temperature increases sharply while considering misalignment.