Review and Prospects for the Development of EHL of Finite Line Contacts.

The elastic contacts in finite line contacts (such as those in roller bearings) are non-Hertzian, and there is a wide variety of generatrix used in practice. Optical interferometry studies have shown that the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) behaviour of such contacts is quite different from that of elliptical or infinite line Hertzian contacts. Few studies of these contacts have been reported during the past four decades. There is therefore a need for research in this area. This paper describes the background, development and recent research on finite line contacts, including that carried out in the authors’ laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]