On the Comparison Between Lubrication Theory, Including Turbulence and Inertia Forces, and Some Existing Experimental Data

Abstract

The results obtained by using lubrication theory, including inertia forces, are checked against experimental data concerning flows in relatively thin films at moderate and large Reynolds numbers. It is shown that a reasonably good agreement is obtained provided that the peculiar features of the experimental flow are properly taken into account; namely, proper consideration of the type of flow (laminar, transition, turbulent), proper evaluation of the region where lubrication flow prevails, entrance flow conditions (relating the flow into the film to the incoming flow), conditions for film rupture, cavitation or separation.