The combined effect of couple stresses, variable viscosity and velocity-slip on the lubrication of finite journal bearings

Abstract

We examine the combined effect of variable viscosity, velocity slip, and the couple stress lubricant on a finite journal bearing. In our model, we utilize the Stokes micro-continuum theorem, the Barus formula, and an artificial (homogeneous) slip surface to improve the lubrication performance. Three cases of slip have also been considered: on the journal, the bearing, and both journal and bearing. The finite difference method is used to solve the equations numerically. The results indicate that the highest pressure occurs with slip on the bearing, and the lowest pressure occurs with slip on the journal. A high piezo-viscosity enhances the pressure and load-carrying capacity. Also, the slip parameter improves the load-carrying capacity. With slip on the bearing only, the frictional parameter decreases significantly.