A Layered-Rheology Model for Thin Film Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication of Circular Contacts

The modified Reynolds equation for power-law fluid is derived from the viscous adsorption theory for thin film elastohydrodynamic lubrication (TFEHL) of circular contacts. The lubricating film between solid surfaces is modeled as three fixed layers, which are two adsorption layers on each surface and a middle layer. The differences between classical EHL and TFEHL with non-Newtonian lubricants are discussed. Results show that the TFEHL power law model can reasonably calculate the pressure distribution, the film thickness, and the velocity distribution. The thickness and viscosity of the adsorption layer and the flow index influence significantly the lubrication characteristics of the contact conjunction.