Nonlinear transient analysis of hole-entry journal bearing with constant flow of micropolar fluids

Abstract

The present work deals with study and analysis of a symmetric hybrid journal bearing compensated with constant flow valve restrictor operating with micropolar fluid from stability point of view. The effect of micropolar parameters on the stability of this journal bearing system is presented on the basis of nonlinear transient model. Finite element method has been used to solve modified Reynolds’ equation for the flow of micropolar fluid through the bearing. Computations are done for the static and dynamic characteristics of hole-entry hybrid journal bearing system. The stability characteristics in terms of critical mass of journal, threshold speed, and frequency of whirl are obtained for journal bearing system operating with Newtonian and micropolar fluids and are compared together. Paths of the journal center in the form of trajectories have also been plotted using the journal center coordinates obtained after solving nonlinear equation of motion by fourth-order Runge–Kutta method to find the stability margin of the considered bearing configuration more precisely and easily. Results indicate that micropolar effect causes significant increase in stability margin of the hybrid journal bearing system especially at higher loads. The results also indicate that lubricant flow through the bearing and type of lubricant should be decided in an appropriate manner for the stability of the constant flow valve compensated hybrid journal bearing system.