Prediction of Film Thickness in an Elastohydrodynamic Point Contact Lubricated with a Viscosity Index Improved Base Oil

Abstract

A simple iterative method is used for the computation of the central film thickness in a fully flooded elastohydrodynamic (EHD) point contact lubricated with a polymeric viscosity index (V1)-improved base oil. The shear stress dependence of the Vl-improved base oil is included in the iterative method. Experimental data are presented on temporary viscosity loss and central film thickness at different temperatures from —8 to 40° C. A good approximation of the central film thickness in an EHD point contact lubricated with V1-improved oil is given by using an iterative method involving the temporary viscosity loss of the Vl-improved base oil. The central film thickness depends on the mean shear stress at the inlet of the contact, and this shear-thinning effect has been accounted for in the calculations.