Numerical study of surface dimple phenomenon by starvation in simple sliding contact

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to use a thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) algorithm incorporating an Eyring flow model to solve a steady-state contact in simple sliding motion. Design/methodology/approach A theoretical model was used to investigate the effect of starvation on the surface dimple phenomenon by gradually reducing the thickness of the inlet oil layer. Findings The increase in the starvation degree reduces the dimple depth, film thickness, the pressure peak and the temperature rise. Under the severe starvation condition, the dimple is eliminated so that the EHL contact becomes partly parched. In elliptical results, for the same starvation parameters, the oil replenishment is stronger than that in circular contact. Originality/value This paper fulfils an exploration to study how the oil starvation influences the surface dimple phenomenon.