A CFD investigation of lubricant flow in deep groove ball bearings

ANSYS FLUENT computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software was used to develop a full-scale model of a singlephase oil flow in a deep groove ball bearing (DGBB). The CFD model was used to investigate fluid flow characteristics as a function of bearing geometry and operating conditions. The underlying theory, boundary conditions and development of the model are described in detail. Major features of the model, including meshing techniques, mesh density and geometric clearances, were determined by performing parametric studies. Streamlines, velocity vectors and pressure contours are used to investigate various DGBB aspects such as cage design and lubricant properties. The CFD model developed provides a novel approach to study DGBB fluid flow and the effect of cage geometry on bearing performance.

Automated summary

This study developed a CFD model using ANSYS FLUENT software to investigate single-phase oil flow in a deep groove ball bearing, determining key features of the model through parametric studies including meshing techniques and geometric clearances. The model utilized streamlines, velocity vectors, and pressure contours to explore various aspects of the DGBB, offering a novel approach to studying fluid flow and cage geometry effects on bearing performance.