Influence of non-Newtonian Rabinowitsch fluids on the operational efficiency of sine film thrust bearings with porous walls

Abstract

Abstract This study explores the influence of a porous wall on the performance of a sine film thrust bearing (T-bearing) with the lubrication of non-Newtonian (n-N) Rabinowitsch fluid. Analytical expressions for pressure distribution, load-carrying capacity and volume flow rate are derived using a nonlinear Reynolds equation based on the Rabinowitsch fluid (RF) model, coupled with a small perturbation technique. The findings reveal that dilatant lubricants generate higher peak pressures, enhanced load-carrying capacities and increased volume flow rates compared to Newtonian and pseudo-plastic lubricants. However, an increase in porous pad thickness and capillary tube radius leads to a reduction in these performance metrics. The results underscore the effectiveness of n-N dilatant lubricants in optimizing the performance of T-bearings.