Analysis and optimisation of grooved parallel slider bearings with cavitation

This paper introduces an analytical approach to optimize the textured bearing with cavitation to improve the load support. For this purpose, a grooved parallel slider bearing is analyzed based on the Reynolds equation and mass conservation equation, adopting the cavitation model used in the inlet suction mechanism. In order to clarify the effect of cavitation, the pressure distributions of the bearing in the three possible cases determined by whether cavitation occurs are analyzed and compared. It is found that the bearing obtains the largest load support in the case that the lowest pressure just reaches the cavitation pressure. Considering this condition, the analytical solutions of the optimal geometric parameters in the bearing with single groove are finally obtained. The results calculated by FLUENT are also consistent with the analytical solutions. The analytical solutions above are extended to the bearing with multiple grooves and reciprocating bearing. The results suggest that the bearing with only one flat wide groove and the bearing with larger textures under slower speed and higher inlet pressure have better load support.