Effect of Texture Depth on the Hydrodynamic Performance of Lubricated Contact Considering Cavitation

Surface texturing on the lubricated bearing has proven to enhance the hydrodynamic performance. The present work explores the influence of texture parameter as well as the Reynolds number on the tribological performance using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) approach. The inclusion of cavitation model in the analysis of lubrication performance is of particular interest. It is shown that the cavitation has a significant effect on the hydrodynamic pressure, and thus the cavitation model should be considered in analysis. Moreover, in this study the optimal relative texture depth is discussed in more detail regarding with the cavitation effect. (paper)