Optimization of the Supporting Surface of a Slider Bearing according to the Load-Carrying Capacity Taking into Account the Lubricant Viscosity Depending on Pressure and Temperature

Abstract

A technique and implementation of an exact self-similar solution for the problem of a thrust slider bearing that operates in a hydrodynamic mode with an incompressible lubricant is considered, taking into account the viscosity simultaneously depending on the pressure and temperature. Based on the equation of motion of a viscous incompressible liquid for the case of a “thin layer” and the continuity equation, the velocity and pressure fields are found and analytical expressions for the load-carrying capacity and friction force are obtained. It is shown that it is possible to increase the load-carrying capacity of bearings by applying a supporting profile of bearing bushings adapted to hydrodynamic conditions. The effect of the adapted profile of the supporting surface exerted on the main operating characteristics of a bearing is estimated.