Effect of lubricant shear thinning behaviour on major functioning parameters of a pad bearing operating in hydrodynamic lubrication region

Abstract Type of lubricant used for fluid film bearings is one the most important factors to consider. Bearing characteristics have maintain steady throughout a wide range conditions. However, viscosity, which primary properties, highly deviates depending on environmental and operational Macro-molecular micro-structure lubricants strongly correlated temperature shear rate, leading thinning behaviour. This work aims in studying pad bearing lubricated by oil hydrodynamic region. Hydrodynamic wedge was modelled small fixed 8.5 mm inner radius, 14.5 outer 40° angle 50 μm inlet – outlet thickness difference. Variety cases were studied several runner rotational velocities minimum thickness. Lubricant as carreau fluid. Load carrying capacity, power losses, friction coefficient, mass flow viscosity evaluated. From aspect load this specific optimally operating up 100 krpm. Above threshold, downgrades due increase causing negative impact capacity. Shear behaviour high importance should not be considered negligible.