EVALUATION OF WEAR RESISTANCE BY THE FRICTION COEFFICIENT OF A MODIFIED RADIAL BEARING DESIGN IN A TURBULENT LUBRICANT FLOW

This paper presents a mathematical model for analyzing the operation of a modified radial plain bearing operating on a true viscous lubricant. The modified bearing design is distinguished by a non-standard profile of the bearing sleeve support and the presence of a polymer coating with an axial groove on the shaft surface. The developed mathematical model takes into account the key factors affecting the bearing operation: the viscosity of the lubricant, the bearing design parameters (including the geometric characteristics of the polymer coating with grooves and the shape of the sleeve bearing profile), as well as the effect of thermal and mechanical loads on the value of the working clearance. To simulate hydrodynamic processes in the lubricating layer, computational fluid dynamics and numerical methods were used, which made it possible to obtain detailed data on the distribution of pressure and velocity. The mathematical model is based on the equation of motion of a liquid lubricant in the “thin layer” approximation and the continuity equation. The model was validated by comparing the calculation results with laboratory test data, which confirms its adequacy and applicability for analyzing and optimizing the characteristics of such bearing units. The results of the study emphasize the significant role of the groove width in the polymer coating and the adaptation of the bearing surface profile to real operating conditions. The data obtained can be used to design and optimize bearing units with improved friction and wear characteristics.