Two-dimensional finite difference solution for externally pressurized journal bearings of finite length

Abstract

A two-dimensional finite difference solution was used to predict the performance of finite length externally pressurized oil-lubricated journal bearings with several supply holes. The generalized Reynolds equation was solved numerically to obtain the effects of the bearing design parameter, eccentricity ratio and speed parameter on bearing performance. Performance curves are presented for a double-feeding plane bearing compensated by orifice restrictors. The bearing load-carrying capacity, stiffness, lubricant flow rate and frictional torque due to bearing rotation increase with increase in the bearing design parameter, eccentricity ratio and speed parameter. The attitude angle increases with increase in the bearing design parameter and is generally stable at high values of the eccentricity ratio and speed parameter. Hydrodynamic and centrifugal actions are present at higher values of the eccentricity ratio and speed parameter.