Lubrication Performance of Misaligned Journal Bearings with Flexible Structure under Shock Load Conditions

Bearings might be damaged due to shock loads caused by disturbances, in addition to static loads. In this study, a flexible structure was applied to enhance the lubrication characteristics of misaligned journal bearings subjected to impact loads. When an impact load is added to the bearing, a misaligned journal bearing has a high possibility of metal-to-metal contact. It might also lead to failure. Misalignment can occur at any time during bearing operation. A flexible structure is applied to the end of the bearing as a way to improve lubrication performance in a system where impact loads might be applied. The bearing’s lubrication performance was numerically assessed under unsteady-state conditions. An elastohydrodynamic lubrication analysis was conducted, taking into account elastic deformation. The lubrication characteristics of misaligned journal bearings were compared with the dimensionless minimum film thickness. The flexible structure and elastic modulus of the bearing were investigated so that it could support the load without contact according to the change in the maximum magnitude of the impact load. When subjected to oil film pressure, this flexible structure underwent elastic deformation, resulting in enlargement of the oil film. A misaligned journal bearing with a suitable flexible structure provided stable lubrication without metal-to-metal contact, even under shock load conditions. The flexible structure was incorporated into the high-load-bearing region of the journal bearing as a groove. Therefore, the application of a flexible structure in misaligned journal bearings can effectively enhance lubrication performance in misaligned conditions and under shock loads.