The Convergence and Advantages of a Series Solution for Finite Hydrodynamic Bearings

Abstract

A series solution is available for the load capacity of a finite, rectangular, hydrodynamic bearing whose lubrication film is curved in one direction. It is shown that the even terms and the odd terms both converge uniformly. A given odd term is larger than the preceding even term so that errors due to truncation of the series are best estimated from the last odd term included in a partial sum. Advantages of the series solution over the standard two-dimensional numerical method are pointed out. They include smaller discretization errors, smaller computer storage requirements and less computer time.