Abstract
The dynamic loading in hydrodynamic bearings and squeeze film dampers submits the lubricant film to periodical squeeze actions. These solicitations have an effect on the film load-carrying capacity and can lead to its rupture (cavitation). In the present experimental study, we achieve a quantitative measure of the effect of geometric and kinematic parameters of the non-conforming contact on the hydrodynamic load-carrying capacity. On the designed test rig, the contact geometry, the average film thickness, the oscillations amplitude and frequency can be varied. The measured load-carrying capacity is compared to numerical predictions. The numerical results are in good agreement with the experimental data. Several oil film rupture modes have been observed. Each mode depends on the oscillations frequency, the oil bath height in the tank and the surface geometry.
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