Technical Trends in Numerical Simulation for Engine Bearings

Abstract

In development of the automotive engine, the improvement of the fuel economy is one of the most important demands. Furthermore, effective utilization of the numerical simulation is focused with improvement of processing computer capability for efficiency improvement of engine development. In this paper, trends in numerical simulation for engine bearing and details of the friction prediction model are introduced. Fluid friction and asperity contact friction are included in this model. The fluid friction is calculated using the piezo-viscous effect and the non-Newtonian lubricant properties. On the other hands, the asperity contact friction is calculated using theory of Greenwood & Tripp. Verification of friction prediction accuracy was compared with experimental value. As a result, predicted friction shows a good agreement with experimental value.