Abstract
Oil film reduction caused by starvation is observed in rolling element bearing lubricated with grease or lubricated by an oil and air lubricating system. Empirical formula for starvation factor, which can predict the oil film thickness in starved EHL condition, is obtained from measurements of non-contact time fraction using a thrust ball bearing. In order to verify availability of this formula, torque measurements for an angular contact ball bearing are conducted in starved conditions. It is suggested that the degree of the starved EHL film formation can be estimated by the obtained formula independent of the bearing size and bearing type in a relatively low speed condition.
