Development of a Novel Dynamically Loaded Journal Bearing Test Rig

• Main Authors: Michlberger, Alexander, Bachu, Pruthvi, Bitsis, Daniel Christopher
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0148-7191; 2688-3627
• DOI: 10.4271/2021-01-1218

In this work, a dynamically loaded hydrodynamic journal bearing test rig is developed and introduced. The rig is a novel design, using a hydraulic actuator with fast acting spool valves to apply load to a connecting rod. This force is transmitted through the connecting rod to the large end bearing which is mounted on a spinning shaft. The hydraulic actuator allows for fully variable control and can be used to apply either static load in compression or tension, or dynamic loading to simulate engine operation. A variable speed electric motor controls shaft speed and is synchronized to the hydraulic actuator to accurately simulate loading to represent all four engine strokes. A high precision torque meter enables direct measurements of friction torque, while shaft position is measured via a high precision encoder. Data generated on the test rig is also presented, and includes frictional torque loss, cumulative energy consumption during transient operation, and starting energy during stop/start testing.