Abstract
A procedure for solving the Navier–Stokes equations for the steady, three-dimensional, cavitated flow of non-Newtonian liquids within finite-breadth journal bearings is described. The method uses a finite difference approach, together with a technique known as SIMPLE (Semi-Implicit Method for Pressure-Linked Equations) which has now become well established in the field of computational fluid dynamics. The concept of ‘effective viscosity’ to describe the non-linear dependence of shear stress on shear rate is used to predict the performance of bearings having a single axial inlet groove situated at the position of maximum clearance between the shaft and housing. The implementation of a cavitation algorithm into the equation set allows the loci of film rupture and reformation in the vicinity of the supply groove and elsewhere to be traced, these having a particularly important influence on the predicted lubricant flowrate.
Results are obtained for a range of non-linearity factors and lead to the conclusion that all the important indicators of bearing performance can be determined using the technique described.
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