On the Lubrication Theory: A Mechanism Responsible for Generation of the Parallel Bearing Load Capacity

Parallel sliding load support has been a subject of numerous theoretical and experimental investigations. Postulated mathematical models suffer from restricting assumptions. The present analysis evaluates the several models that have appeared and provides an orderly analysis which elaborates on the mechanism that may be responsible for the fluid generated lifting force. The governing continuity, momentum and energy equations for a Newtonian fluid, which are coupled, via temperature dependent density and viscosity are solved simultaneously using the finite difference method, to yield various bearing characteristics. The results indicate that the consideration for the foreregion pressure together with the density variation, may lead to a useful load support with a reduced friction, even for parallel sliding.