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Maximizing the Lubricant Film Thickness Between a Rigid Microtextured and a Smooth Deformable Surface in Relative
Quentin Allen1, Bart Raeymaekers1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, 1495 E. 100 S. (1550 MEK), Salt Lake City, UT 84112.
Journal of Tribology
|June 25, 2021
Summary
Microtextured surfaces enhance hydrodynamic pressure and lubricant film thickness in hard-on-soft bearings. Optimal texture density (10-40%) and aspect ratio (1-14%) maximize film thickness, independent of surface stiffness in full-film lubrication.
Area of Science:
- Tribology
- Lubrication Engineering
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Hard-on-soft bearings are prone to wear due to insufficient lubricant film thickness.
- Microtexturing surfaces is a promising approach to enhance lubrication performance.
- Understanding the influence of microtexture parameters is crucial for optimizing bearing design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of microtexture design parameters on hydrodynamic pressure and lubricant film thickness in hard-on-soft bearings.
- To determine optimal microtexture configurations for maximizing lubricant film thickness.
- To evaluate the effect of bearing operating conditions on lubrication performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a soft elastohydrodynamic lubrication model to simulate bearing performance.
- Analyzed the influence of microtexture density and aspect ratio on lubricant film thickness.
- Varied bearing load and operating conditions to assess their impact.
Main Results:
- Maximum lubricant film thickness achieved with texture density between 10% and 40%.
- Optimal texture aspect ratio ranged from 1% to 14%, contingent on load and operating conditions.
- Lubricant film thickness demonstrated independence from bearing surface stiffness under full-film lubrication.
Conclusions:
- Microtexturing is an effective strategy for improving lubricant film thickness in hard-on-soft bearings.
- Specific ranges of texture density and aspect ratio are critical for maximizing performance.
- The findings offer valuable insights for designing advanced bearings with enhanced durability and efficiency.
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