On the Maximum Allowable Loads in the Thermo-Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication

Abstract

Thermo-elastohydrodynamic lubrication is considered. A numerical procedure for obtaining the maximum allowable load is presented. The maximum allowable load is defined as the load which, for a given set of parameters, when exceeded will cause either change of the lubrication character, or collapse of the fluid film if the film thickness was large relative to the surface roughness. The procedure is illustrated by applying it to the infinitely wide thrust bearings lubricated by the Newtonian or power-law fluid.