2011 Volume 39 Issue 4 Pages 153-158
Laminar, two-dimensional flow of an incompressible thixotropic fluid obeying Moore's model is investigated numerically in a slipper-pad bearing using FVM method. Results will be presented addressing the effect of thixotropic properties and inclination angle on the pressure distribution and load-carrying capacity of the bearing. It is shown that the pressure distribution under the upper pad depends only on the buildup-to-breakdown ratio. It is also predicted that by increasing this ratio, the load-carrying capacity increases, but, the pressure distribution becomes more and more asymmetric with the maximum pressure shifting towards the outlet section of the bearing. Also, for any given set of Moore's model parameters, an increase in the inclination angle is shown to linearly increase the load-carrying capacity of the bearing at small angles. Above a critical inclination angle, however, the rise in the load-carrying capacity becomes nonlinear. Also, by increasing the inclination angle, the location for the occurrence of maximum pressure shifts towards the outlet section of the bearing.
