Theoretical and experimental investigation on the influences of misalignment on the lubrication performances and lubrication regimes transition of water lubricated bearing

The paper investigates the influences of misalignment on the lubrication performances and lubrication regimes transition of water lubricated bearing. A modified lubrication model considering the influences of journal misalignment is proposed in the paper. Surface topography and thermal balance effects are incorporated in the theoretical model. Influences of misalignment with different surface roughness and radial clearances on lubrication performances are explored systematically. Experimental results verified the correctness of the lubrication model. Results indicate that the maximum pressure and shear stress increase, the minimum film thickness decreases and the eight dynamic coefficients increase with the misaligned angle. The region of boundary lubrication arises, the region of mixed lubrication and hydrodynamic lubrication decreases. Misaligned angle deteriorates the lubrication performances on the interface. Research results have guiding significance for further study of influences of surface topography on the structure design and optimization for such bearings.