GENERALIZED REYNOLDS-EQUATION FOR SOLID-LIQUID LUBRICATED BEARINGS

The continuum theory of mixture was employed to derive a generalized f orm of the Reynolds equation for the lubrication problems involving lu bricants that contain solid particles. The derivation of the governing equations and the boundary conditions are presented. The governing eq uations are two coupled partial differential equations that must be so lved simultaneously for the solid volume fraction and the pressure dis tribution in a hydrodynamic bearing. The boundary conditions allow the particles to slip at,the boundary surfaces. The formulation takes the interaction between the solid and the fluid constituents into conside ration. Extensive numerical results are presented for the performance parameters in finite journal bearings lubricated with granular powder mixed with Newtonian oil.