Elastohydrodynamic lubrication for the finite line contact under transient loading conditions

Research related to elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) has led to improved performance and durability of machine elements where non-conformal contact geometries interact. Only a relatively small portion of the EHL literature has, however, dealt with the lubricating performance of finite line contacts under non-steady conditions, commonly found in many practical applications. The purpose of this work has thus been to further understand the behaviour of finite line EHL contacts under transient conditions by studying a finite length roller subjected to a time varying load using a full-system finite element approach. The transient load was shown to initiate oscillations in the system, governed by waves of lubricant moving through the contact, affecting both pressure and film thickness throughout the contact.