Abstract:

ESDU 91038 provides details of a computer program that implements the calculations method of ESDU 89045 and provides a method for predicting the minimum lubricant film thickness in concentrated contacts (Hertzian contacts) that occur, for example, in rolling element bearings, variable speed traction drives and many types of gears. The program may be applied for the contact of metallic, plastic or ceramic components lubricated by mineral oils and other liquids such as those used in traction drives. In addition to calculation of minimum film thickness, the program calculates the proportions and orientation of the contact ellipse, the direction of lubricant entrainment and several non-dimensional quantities of theoretical interest. The program will also, optionally, calculate the lamda ratio so that the adequacy of the lubricant film thickness can be assessed.