Stochastic Models for Hydrodynamic Lubrication of Rough Surfaces

Abstract

This paper deals with hydrodynamic aspects of rough bearing surfaces. On the basis of stochastic theory two different forms of Reynolds-type equation corresponding to two different types of surface roughnesses are developed. It is shown that the mathematical form of these equations is similar but not identical to the form of the Reynolds equation governing the behaviour of smooth, deterministic bearing surfaces. To illustrate the functional effects of surface roughness the influence on the operating characteristics of a plane pad, no side leakage slider bearing is analysed. It is shown that surface roughness may considerably influence the operating characteristics of bearings and that the direction of the influence depends upon the type of roughness assumed. The effects are not, however, critically dependent upon the detailed form of the distribution function of the roughness heights.