Experimental and numerical exploration on the nonlinear dynamic behaviors of a novel bearing lubricated by low viscosity lubricant

For the Lead-Bismuth alloy solution lubricated bearing, the lubrication performances are studied. Because the hydraulic model is quite complex, it needs to be simplified. When the clearance and eccentricity ratio are fixed, the static pressure ascends with the enhancement of speeds. In addition, the maximum positive pressure increases with the increment of the rotational speeds and eccentricity ratios, and decreases with the enhancement of clearances. For minimum pressure, the minimum negative pressure descends with the increment of rotational speeds and eccentricity ratios, and increases with clearance’s increment. With the enhancement of rotational speeds, the value and area of maximum pressure increase sharply. And, the value of minimum pressure decreases to 0. [Display omitted] •A novel high-temperature liquid Lead-Bismuth lubricated bearing is put forward.•Modified lubrication models for the bearing are developed.•Influences of the structural parameters and operating conditions are investigated systematically.•Theoretical analysis coincides with the experiments, which verifies the rationality and correctness of the novel bearing. The high temperature liquid Lead-Bismuth (PbBi) solution lubricated bearing is an essential supporting component of the two-circuit main loop system in the nuclear power station. Revised dynamic lubrication models with cavitation effects are developed. The influences of the clearances, rotating speeds, eccentricity ratios and annular guiding groove on the hydrodynamic characteristics are studied. The results reveal that the peak pressure ascends with the speeds and eccentricity ratios. The maximum/minimum pressure descends with the clearances. Theoretical analysis coincides with the experimental data. The rationality and correctness of the lubrication models have been verified. Research fruits provide a firm foundation for further research and engineering applications on such bearings.