Performance Analysis of Full-Film Textured Surfaces With Consideration of Roughness Effects

A mass-conservative algorithm that implements the Jakobsson-Floberg-Olsson cavitation theory is used to predict the performances of seal-like structures and thrust bearings with a dimpled surface texture. The results of a series of simulations for load-carrying capacity, film thickness, dimple depth, dimple density, cavitation pressure, leakage, and friction force are presented, and the relationship between these performance parameters is studied. It is shown that, under the conditions simulated, surface roughness can improve the load-carrying capacity, but its effect is limited. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4003303]