Modelling and Analysis of Elastic and Thermal Deformations of a Hydrodynamic Radial Journal Bearing

Journal bearings are widely used in heavy industry and in internal combustion engine applications. There is a need to increase the power density of various machine parts which leads to increased bearing loads and reduced lubrication film thicknesses. This type of development may increase deformations on the bearing surfaces which need to be considered in the bearing design process.The main purpose of this work was to develop a parameterized calculation model for hydrodynamic radial journal bearings which takes into account elastic and thermal deformations of the bearing surfaces. Hydrodynamic calculations were based on the numerical solving of the Reynolds equation by assuming rigid surfaces. Elastic and thermal deformations of the bearing and shaft surfaces were calculated by using the finite element method. It is concluded that elastic and thermal deformations are partly canceling each other out at the loaded side of the bearing and depending on the sliding speed and the external normal force either one of them could be more significant.