A Study of Finite Hydrodynamic Slider Bearings Lubricated With Ferrofluids

Abstract

An effort has been made to study and analyze the performance of a finite hydrodynamic slider bearing lubricated by Ferro fluid. The modified Reynolds' equation, pressure differential equation, that contains the magnetic effect of the ferro-lubricant is derived and solved numerically and the results of the overall static characteristics namely; pressures, load-carrying capacity, pressure center, friction force and friction coefficient are determined and presented in this study. Also, the flow rates in the bearing are evaluated. The study indicates that the wedge parameter has an optimum value (about 1.25) which gives higher load capacity, lower friction force and lower friction coefficient. Also, the width to length ratio has an important role in the performance of finite bearings until value equal 4, while the wider bearing has non-significant effect on the performance. It is also shown that the magnetic effect of the ferro-lubricant has significant improving effect on the overall static characteristics of the slider bearing.