A Divergence Formulation-Finite Element Method with Use of Triangular Elements for the Dynamic Characteristics of a Fluid Lubrication Analysis

Abstract

A general numerical method of calculation of the dynamic characteristics of fluid film lubrication in irregular bearing shapes and a high bearing number region is described. The method represents an expansion of the formulation of the divergence formulation method to the triangular element used in the finite element method. Weighted upstream schemes which are commonly used in the divergence formulation method on structured grid systems can be introduced in unstructured grid systems very easily. Numerical results for stiffness and damping coefficients of oil and gasjournal bearings show the usefulness and accuracy of the method.