Dynamic characteristics of finite slider bearings lubricated with a non‐Newtonian power‐law fluid

Abstract

Purpose On the basis of the power‐law fluid model, the rheological effects of an isothermal incompressible non‐Newtonian laminar lubricating film on the steady and dynamic characteristics of finite slider bearings are presented in the absence of fluid inertia and cavitation. Design/methodology/approach To account for the motion that the pad undergoes prescribed small‐amplitude oscillations in a direction perpendicular to itself, the non‐Newtonian dynamic Reynolds equation including the squeezing‐action effect is obtained. Both the steady pressure and the perturbed pressure are numerically solved and used to evaluate the steady‐state performance and dynamic characteristics. Findings According to the results, higher steady load‐carrying capacity, dynamic stiffness and damping coefficients are predicted for the finite bearing with small wedge parameter and high viscosity‐shear rate index. In addition, the effects of non‐Newtonian power‐law lubricants on the bearing characteristics are more pronounced when the bearing width becomes large. Originality/value The paper provides useful information on the dynamic characteristics of finite bearings lubricated by a non‐Newtonian power‐law fluid.