Effects of Surface Roughness and Non-Newtonian Micropolar Fluid Squeeze Film between Conical Bearings

Abstract

Abstract Based on the micropolar fluid models of Eringen and Christensen’s stochastic theories, the analysis of the effects of surface roughness and the squeeze film lubrication problems between conical bearings are presented. The concerned nondimensional Reynolds equation is solved with appropriate boundary conditions in dimensionless form to find the pressure distribution, which is then used to obtain the expression for load-carrying capacity, paving the way for the calculation of response time. Computed values of pressure, load capacity, and response time are displayed in graphical form. This investigation reveals that the bearing system admits an improved performance as compared with that of a bearing system working with a conventional lubricant. According to the results, the effects of transverse roughness provide an increase in the bearing characteristics as compared with the smooth bearing lubricated with micropolar fluid whereas the influences of longitudinal roughness yield a reversed trend. The quantifiable effects of rough surfaces and non-Newtonian fluids on bearing performances are more pronounced for the roughness and micropolar parameters.