Grid Transformation and Adaption Techniques Applied in the Analysis of Cavitated Journal Bearings

Abstract

An existing cavitation algorithm (a numerical procedure that automatically predicts film rupture and reformation in bearings) is modified in this paper. Second order upwinding is used to difference the shear induced flow terms in the cavitated region. A grid transformation procedure using a body fitted coordinate system and grid adaption techniques are applied to the algorithm. Four statically loaded finite journal bearing cases are analyzed. The results are compared with the results obtained using a conventional grid. The advantage of these methods is demonstrated by obtaining equal or better accuracy with a coarser grid and by the consumption of smaller amounts of computer time.