Study on curved surface design of sliding pair based on stepped topography model

Abstract

Purpose The stepped topography of the friction pairs mainly causes the fluid film thickness to change in the direction of motion. In this region, there have very few topographical design methods for continuous or non-linear distribution of the fluid film. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of the curved surface on the performance of the liquid film. Design/methodology/approach First, a numerical simulation is used to solve the optimal bearing capacity and friction coefficient of the liquid film under the condition of the minimum film thickness. Then, the curved surface described by the sinusoidal curve equation is applied in the transitional region of maximum and minimum film thickness. The bearing capacity and the friction coefficient of the liquid film are respectively simulated and compared in the same condition of the minimum film thickness. Findings The research results show that the liquid film using the curved surface transition model, the optimal bearing capacity is significantly increased by 32 per cent while the optimal friction coefficient is clearly reduced by 38 per cent in comparison with using stepped surface model. Originality/value The friction pair with curved transition enables better lubrication performance of the liquid film and better adaptability under unstable conditions.