Numerical modelling of the lubricant supply of thrust bearings by using physical conservation equations

• Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Hubert Schwarze
• Subject Area: Engineering Design, Machine Elements, Product Development ; Fluid Mechanics
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 525695648

The operating parameters of medium- and high-speed thrust bearings can currently only be predicted with sufficient accuracy on the basis of standard thermo-hydrodynamic (THD) calculation methods by applying case-specific, empirical correction factors for the processes in the lubricant supply pockets. The central objective of this research project is therefore the development of a numerically verified and experimentally validated model for the lubricant supply pocket, which represents the essential processes on the basis of physical relationships and is suitable for use in a THD calculation method. For this purpose, basic numerical investigations of the flow in the supply pockets of selected thrust bearings are carried out with the aid of CFD software. The essential flow effects identified during these investigations are incorporated into the model scope of the novel feed model, which is subsequently implemented in the thrust bearing calculation program COMBROS A as an example. This numerical implementation will be verified using CFD data, validated with the help of experimental results and determined using a special test rig for high circumferential speeds as part of the investigations to be carried out. The development of a physical lubricant supply model for thrust bearings aimed at with these research activities makes it possible to reduce existing uncertainties in the development, optimisation or design process, whereby predictions of the operating behaviour for high end bearings important for innovations can be made with increased reliability.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants