Static characteristics analysis of spherical hybrid sliding bearings

Purpose The spherical hybrid sliding bearings (SHSBs) can be used in ultra-precision and heavy-duty machine tools. However, there is little related research for these bearings. The purpose of this study is to investigate the static characteristics and effect factors affecting SHSBs by fluid lubrication. Design/methodology/approach Based on the theories of fluid lubrication, the Reynolds equation of general Newtonian fluid is derived to obtain the steady-state lubrication equation. The system is solved by the finite difference method and the relaxation iterative method on the staggered grid to obtain the thickness and the pressure distribution of the oil film. The radial and axial load capacities of SHSBs are determined by the pressure field integration over the spherical surface. Findings The results show that the parameters such as oil supply pressure, bearing clearance, eccentricity ratio, rotating speed and orifices’ number affecting the static characteristics of bearings are significant and the cross-coupling effect exists. Originality/value The lubrication model of SHSB is established to analyze the pressure distribution with a variety of oil film thickness. The laws of oil supply pressure, bearing clearance, eccentricity ratio, rotating speed and orifices’ number on the load capacities are researched.