Three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic analysis of high-speed water-lubricated hydrodynamic journal bearing with groove texture considering turbulence

Water-lubricated bearings have attracted increasing attention in the field of high-speed machine tools for their low friction due to low viscosity. However, new problems, in particular, insufficient load capacity, are on the way. To the point, groove-textured journal bearing is adopted in this study. Aiming at investigating the effects of groove texture on high speed, water-lubricated, hydrodynamic journal bearing precisely, and thoroughly, three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic analyses considering cavitation and turbulence are undertaken to assess the tribological performances of the bearing. To reduce the amount of three-dimensional modeling and meshing work, mesh deformation is presented. The numerical results are compared with experiments to verify the validity of the present models and calculation procedures. Pressure distribution, load capacity, and friction of groove-textured water-lubricated journal bearing are analyzed with respect to operating conditions and geometric parameters. Comparisons between groove-textured water-lubricated journal bearing and smooth bearing are carried out to find out the influence of groove texture. It is found that the groove texture can achieve a remarkable improvement of load capacity at a smaller eccentricity ratio and higher rotary speed. The load capacity is affected by the combined effects of groove depth, width, and length. However, generally, the friction force of water-lubricated journal bearing is slightly influenced by groove texture. Results can provide theoretical guidance for the optimal design of groove-textured water-lubricated journal bearing under different operating parameters.