Ferrofluid squeeze film in a long journal bearing

A theoretical study and comparison were made of squeeze film behaviour in an infinitely long journal bearing using the ferrofluid flow models of Neuringer-Rosensweig, Jenkins and Shliomis with uniform and non-uniform magnetic fields. Expressions were obtained for the pressure, load capacity and response time of the squeeze film using the flow models of Jenkins as well as Shliomis. The results corresponding to the Neuringer-Rosensweig model were deduced from the Jenkins model. Computed values of dimensionless load capacity and response time were displayed in tabular form. Their values increased with increasing values of the eccentricity ratio in all the three models. They decreased or increased according to whether the values increased were those of the Jenkins material constant or the rotational viscosity parameter of Shliomis. A uniform magnetic field could not produce magnetic pressure in the Neuringer-Rosensweig model, but it could affect the bearing characteristics in the Shliomis model owing to the rotational viscosity. The load capacity and squeeze time are more in the case of a non-uniform magnetic field than in the case of a uniform magnetic field. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.