Influence of couple stress and magnetic fluid on the performance of step slider bearing

This theoretical investigation delves into the performance of step slider bearings, considering the influence of couple stress and magnetic fluid as the lubricating medium. Employing a non-linear model for magnetic field intensity aims to optimize bearing performance. Modifying the Reynolds equation for step slider bearings incorporates theories from Neuringer and Rosensweig for magnetic fluid flow dynamics and the Stokes micro-continuum model to account for couple stress effects. Solving the Reynolds equation with appropriate boundary conditions determines key parameters such as pressure, load capacity, center of pressure, and frictional force. Analytical formulations for load-bearing capacity and pressure distribution are produced, and MATLAB is used to analyse the integrals that appear in these two expressions. The results of the investigation are then explained via graphical representations. The findings demonstrate a notable improvement in load-carrying capacity ferrofluid based system as compared to non-magnetic fluid. Additionally, increasing coupling stress and magnetization parameters results in a drop in the frictional coefficient and an increase in both load capacity and frictional force. The use of magnetic fluid lubrication significantly increases the beneficial effects of couple stress fluids. It is discovered that the impact of magnetic fluid lubrication increases the load-carrying capacity by at least 22.30 % in the presence of couple stress. The synergistic effect of couple stress and magnetic fluid lubrication demonstrates the potential for optimizing the bearing performance beyond conventional methods.