Tribology encompasses all types of friction, including dry, mixed, and fluid friction, all of which can be observed in journal bearings. Under operational conditions, distinct fluid friction occurs, where the shaft and bearing shell are separated by a supporting lubricating film. This film’s supporting role can be analyzed through the pressure distribution within the bearing gap. The experimental setup visualizes the radial pressure profile in a journal bearing with hydrodynamic lubrication. It features an open bearing shell that partially encloses a shaft to simulate the journal bearing. The bearing shell is mounted on two spring plates that allow it to move. Unlike actual hydrodynamic journal bearings, the gap width can be adjusted using the radially movable bearing housing, controlled by the spring plates and a micrometer screw. The unit’s display and control panel shows the speed and enables its continuous adjustment. Pressure measurements are taken at 13 points around the circumference of the bearing shell, with readings obtained from 13 tube manometers by measuring the liquid column height. Lubricant oil is used to simulate bearing circumferential pressure, and the transparent bearing shell permits close observation of the experiment.
Experiments:
- Pressure distribution in the journal bearing as a function of speed
- Pressure distribution in the journal bearing in relation to load or bearing gap width
- Stability limit based on the gap width
Specifications:
- Showcasing and illustrating the pressure distribution in a journal bearing with hydrodynamic lubrication
- Rapid and straightforward assembly of the experimental unit onto the drive unit frame
- Roller is powered by a geared motor connected to the bearing shaft
- Adjustable bearing housing with a modifiable bearing gap
- 13 radial pressure measurement points on the bearing shell
- Radial pressure distribution displayed using 13 tube manometers
- Bearing housing is fully transparent