Oil–Air Two-Phase Flow Distribution Characteristics inside Cylindrical Roller Bearing with Under-Race Lubrication

Abstract

A deep understanding of oil behavior inside roller bearings is important for the precise design of bearing configurations and oil systems in aircraft engines. The numerical method is employed to track oil distribution inside cylindrical roller bearings with under-race lubrication along the circumference and radial direction, respectively. The results demonstrate that oil distribution along the circumference is periodic with the number of under-race nozzles, and higher rotating speed and lower flow rate would reduce the fluctuation amplitude. It is difficult for oil to flow through the gap between the cage pocket and rollers, and higher oil viscosity would worsen it further. In some extreme cases, the oil volume fraction near the outer race may be lower than 0.7%, causing the risk of lubricating and cooling failure. Thus, more attention should be paid to the outer race of the roller bearing with under-race lubrication, especially during the starting stage of the engine and in cold weather.