Performance analysis of columnar convex-concave compound microtexture thrust bearing.

Purpose: This study aims to enhance the lubrication performance of thrust bearings. The influence of columnar convex–concave compound microtexture on bearing performance is investigated Design/methodology/approach: Based on the compound microtexture model of thrust bearings, considering surface roughness and turbulent effect, the variation of lubrication characteristics with the change in the compound microtexture parameters is studied. Findings: The results indicate that, compared with circular microtexture, the maximum pressure of compound microtexture of thrust bearings increases by 7.42%. Optimal bearing performance is achieved when the internal microtexture depth is 0.02 mm. Turbulent flow states and surface roughness lead to a reduction in the optimal depth. The maximum pressure and load-carrying capacity of the bearing decrease as the initial angle increases, whereas the friction coefficient increases with the increase in the initial angle. The lubrication performance is best for bearings with a circumferential parallel arrangement of microtexture. Originality/value: The novel composite microtexture with columnar convex-concave is proposed, and the computational model of thrust bearings is set. The influence of surface roughness and turbulent flow on the bearing performance should be considered for better conforming with engineering practice. The effect of microtexture depth, arrangement method and distribution position on the lubrication performance of the compound microtexture thrust bearing is investigated, which is of great significance for improving tribology, thrust bearings and surface microtexture theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]