Transient mixed thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication under startup and shut down conditions

The transient mixed lubrication behaviors in thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication (TEHL) contacts during startup and stop are investigated. A transient mixed TEHL model for point contacts under time-varying speed conditions is proposed with comprehensive consideration of surface roughness, thermal effect, and transient behavior. The model is validated by the comparison to available published data. Based on the developed model, significant differences have been found compared with transient EHL and steady TEHL models. In addition, the transient mixed TEHL performance during start–stop with different acceleration rates and surface roughness is investigated. It shows that the lubrication behaviors during start–stop have an irreversible process. The roughness can significantly enhance the transient behavior. The roughness effect has a remarkable impact on lubrication performance in mixed lubrication. The evolution of lubrication behaviors during start–stop is highly related to the acceleration rate and surface topography.