Investigation of journal orbit and flow pattern in a dynamically loaded journal bearing

The two approaches are compared by performing an investigation of two inlet groove designs: the axial and the circumferential groove, respectively, on a bearing with length-to-diameter ratio of 0.5 exposed to a sinusoidal load pattern. Pressure distributions, journal orbits and frictional losses are compared. The modelling of grooves by pressure boundary conditions versus geometric conditions is examined. It is investigated if the presence of a groove increases frictional losses and the increase relates to groove dimensions. Furthermore, the influence of the groove design on the flow field is studied using the 3D solution.