Impact of Oil Film Dynamics on the Performance of Aeroengine Plain Bearings

Abstract

This investigation addresses the issue of premature failure or damage to bearing components in aeroengines, which often results from the release of dissolved gases in the lubricant due to environmental pressure changes during operation. Employing the three-dimensional Reynolds equation and focusing on an ideal lubricating oil, a lubrication model for the engine camshaft's oil film was developed. The formation and extent of gaseous voids within plain bearings were analyzed. The study systematically explored how fit clearance and lubricating oil viscosity influence oil film pressure and thickness. It was found that a reduced fit gap increases the oil film pressure gradient while decreasing the film's thickness. Additionally, although variations in lubricating oil viscosity do not affect the distribution of oil film thickness, they significantly impact the pressure exerted on the oil film, with higher viscosities leading to increased pressures. These findings provide essential theoretical guidance for the safety assessment of aeroengine plain bearings.