Effect of geometric imperfections of journal on the performance of micropolar lubricated 4-pocket hybrid journal bearing

The present paper theoretically describes the effect of geometric imperfections of journal on the performance of micropolar lubricated 4-pocket hybrid journal bearing. The numerically simulated results are presented for different forms of geometric irregularities of journal such as barrel shape, bellmouth shape, circumferential undulations along with the ideal shape for both the Newtonian and micropolar lubricant. The numerically simulated results clearly indicate that the geometric irregularities of journal significantly affect the performance of the bearing system. The deterioration in bearing performance due to geometric irregularities can be compensated partially by proper choice of lubricant (Newtonian/micropolar) and type of compensating device.

► Performance of micropolar lubricated 4-pocket hybrid journal bearing. ► The influence of geometric imperfections of journal such as barrel, bellmouth, and undulations type. ► The comparative performance for capillary, orifice and CFV compensated bearing. ► Bearing performance deteriorates significantly due to these geometric imperfections. ► Deterioration may be partially compensated by proper choice of lubricant and type of restrictor.