Static characteristics of the two-lobe journal bearing with turbulent oil film

In modern high speed turbomachinery the journal surface velocity can reach the value about 100 m/s. The heat generated in the lubricating gap of high speed journal bearing decreases the oil viscosity causing the operation of bearings with partially or fully turbulent film flows. The calculation procedure of static and dynamic characteristics of these bearings should base on the Reynolds, energy and viscosity equations with application of turbulence coefficients in the equation of oil film pressure and temperature distribution. The paper introduces the numerical solution of Reynolds and energy equations and some results of calculation of static characteristics of 2-lobe journal bearing operating in the conditions of laminar isothermal, adiabatic and adiabatic turbulent oil film. Obtained results point out on the necessity of considering the turbulence in the calculation of high speed bearings.