Effects of viscosity variation and surface roughness on the couple stress squeeze film characteristics of short journal bearings

Abstract

The theoretical analysis of the combined effects of surface roughness and viscosity variation on the couple stress squeeze film characteristics of short journal bearings is presented. The modified stochastic Reynold’s equation accounting for the viscosity variation of couple stresses fluid and randomized surface roughness structure on bearing surface is mathematically derived using the Christensen stochastic theory. It is observed that, the transverse roughness pattern improves the squeeze film characteristics whereas the bearing performance is affected due to the presence of one dimensional longitudinal surface roughness. Further, it is observed that, the effect of viscosity variation is to reduce the load carrying capacity and squeeze film time as compared to the case of constant viscosity. © 2015 Published by Faculty of Engineering.