Multibody dynamics of pivot slipper pad thrust bearing in axial piston machines incorporating thermal elastohydrodynamics and mixed lubrication model

A model for the calculation of multibody dynamics incorporating a transient, three-dimensional, thermal elastohydrodynamic pivot pad contact in swash plate axial piston pumps is presented. The simulation is based on the numerical solution of equations of motion, generalized Reynolds, energy and Fourier heat equations. The equation of motion of the hybrid pivot bearing is derived by Lagrangian formalism and solved in due consideration of friction in the spherical joint and piston-barrel. Mass conserving cavitation, non-Newtonian flow and a mixed friction model with consideration of real-measured surface topologies are implemented. Results for a slipper pad with retain plate are presented. The impact of the retain device on slipper pad friction and temperature are discussed. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.