Effect of viscosity variation on the squeeze film performance of a narrow hydrodynamic journal bearing operating with couple stress fluids

Abstract

In the current paper, a theoretical study of the effect of the viscosity variation on the squeeze film performance of a short bearing operating with couple stress fluids is presented. The modified Reynolds equation accounting for the couple stresses and viscosity variation is mathematically derived. To obtain a closed form solution, the short bearing approximation under constant load is considered. The modified Reynolds equation is solved for the fluid film pressure and then the bearing characteristics, such as the load carrying capacity and the squeeze time for the fluid film are obtained. According to the results evaluated, the couple stress fluid as a lubricant improves the squeeze film characteristics and results in a longer bearing life. Whereas the viscosity variation factor decreases the load carrying capacity and squeeze film time. The results are compared with the Newtonian fluid.