Thermal Behavior and Friction in Journal Bearings

Abstract

This paper deals with friction and the field of temperature in the lubricant film of journal bearings. Theoretical results regarding the thermal behavior are checked with experimental data and good agreement is found. Emphasis is put on the variation of temperature and lubricant flow with the operating characteristics of the bearing and it is seen that theoretical predictions for minima of friction torque are backed by temperature measurements. Further on, the friction torque and the mechanism of heat dissipation in bearings are dealt with, in order to verify the assumptions used in the calculation schemes. The means of efficiently cooling the bearing are also discussed, as well as the part played by the divergent zone in this process.