Effects of geometrical parameters on thermohydrodynamic performance of a bearing operating with nanoparticle additive oil

Abstract

Purpose Bearing performance characteristics, such as stiffness and load capacity, are related to the viscosity of the fluid circulating through the gap. Nanoparticle additives in lubricant are one way to enhance of the viscosity. This study aims to investigate the effect of nanoparticle additives on the thermohydrodynamic performance of journal bearing with different bearing parameters. Design/methodology/approach The temperature distribution is modeled using a three-dimensional energy equation. The velocity components are calculated on the pressure distribution governed by Dowson’s equation. Moreover, the heat transfer between the journal and lubricant is modeled with Fourier heat conduction equation. On the other hand, the viscosity equation is derived for Al2O3 nanoparticles as a function of the volume ratio and the temperature. An algorithm based on the finite difference method is developed, and a serial simulation is performed for different parameters and different volume ratio of nanoparticle. Findings With the increase in the nanoparticle volume ratio, the maximum temperature decreases for the lower clearance values, but the addition of the nanoparticle influence on the maximum temperature reverses when the clearance grows up. The nanoparticle additives increase further the maximum temperature for higher values of L/D ratios. Moreover, the effects of the nanoparticle additives on the pressure are stronger at high eccentricity ratios for all bearing parameters. Originality/value This paper provides valuable design parameters for journal bearing with lubricant containing the nanoparticle additives.