Author(s)

D J S Barrett, A El-Zafrany & I R W McLuckie

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a plain bearing calculation technique that couples the finite difference method (FDM)to the boundary element method (BEM). The boundary element matrices are transformed into a finite element style stiffness matrix. This is then condensed to the active nodes only and transformed into a compliance matrix in the local transverse and normal directions. This matrix is used to adjust the film thickness in the finite difference solution of Reynold's equation for the oil film in the bearing. The procedure has been implemented in 2D only here and a summary of the requirements for extension to 3D provided. Validation of the procedure has been carried out by comparison with finite element models using ABAQUS. Results from case studies for an automotive connecting rod bearing are presented.

Keywords