Numerical solution of finite modified Reynolds equation for couple stress squeeze film lubrication of porous journal bearings

Abstract

In this paper, the rheological effect of couple stress fluids on the static and dynamic characteristics of squeeze film lubrication in finite porous journal bearings is studied. The finite modified Reynolds equation is derived from the Stokes constitutive equations for couple stress fluids and is solved numerically by using the finite difference technique. The applied load is considered as a sinusoidal function of time to simulate the bearings operating under cyclic loads. Under a cyclic load, the effect of couple stress is to reduce the velocity of the journal centre and to increase the minimum permissible height of the squeeze film. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.