Solution for the Pressure and Temperature in an Infinite Slider Bearing of Arbitrary Profile

Abstract

An iterative method of calculating the steady-state pressure and temperature distributions in the fluid film for infinitely wide slider bearings is presented. The bearing profile is assumed to be quite general, rendering the method particularly applicable to problems involving thermal or elastic distortion. The viscosity of the lubricant is regarded as a function of temperature and pressure; the density as a function of temperature only. The inertia terms are retained in the simplified Navier-Stokes equation and the energy equation includes the compression work term. Heat transfer between the bearing surfaces and the fluid film are accounted for. Several numerical examples are evaluated and compared with existing solutions. The solution presented is believed to be the most complete to date. A subsequent paper will deal with the effect of thermal distortions of similar geometrical arrangements described herein.