A Study on Bubbly Lubrication of High-Speed proceeding Bearing Considering Live Surface Tension

The influence of aerated oil on a high-speed proceeding bearing is examined by using the classical thermohydrodynamic lubrication theory coupled with analytical models for viscosity and density of air-oil mixture in fluid-film bearing including the live surface tension of aerated oil. Convection to the walls and mixing with supply oil and re-circulating oil are considered. The considered parameters for the study of bubbly lubrication are oil aeration level, air bubble size and shaft speed. The results show that, if the live surface tension is considered, the effect of air bubbles on the bearing load capacity is reduced due to temperature engagement comparing with that under the condition of a constant surface tension.