Turbulent Lubrication Theory using Algebraic Reynolds Stress Model in Finite Journal Bearings with Cavitation Boundary Conditions

Abstract

This paper proposes a turbulent lubrication theory for finite journal bearings using an algebraic Reynolds stress model. This turbulence model successfully employs the wall damping effect owing to the presence of the mating surfaces of the bearing. The simultaneous solutions of the governing equations are obtained by a finite difference scheme. The present work performs the theoretical analysis with the boundary condition taking into account the occurrence of sub-cavity pressure loop immediately upstream of the cavitation region and investigates the influence of the boundary condition on the bearing performances.