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Analysis Of Connecting Rod Bearing Design Trends Using A Mode-Based Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Model, Travis M. Blais

Theses

Available design trends for big end connecting rod bearings utilize widely adopted rapid methods for prediction of minimum film thickness due to their superior speed and ease of use. However, they impose unrealistic assumptions such as surface rigidity, which could compromise the accuracy of results. The significance of structural elasticity and updated models was investigated using a mode based elastohydrodynamic lubrication model which includes body forces, mass conserving cavitation, and surface roughness. Eight physical connecting rods were modeled using finite element methods and simulated over a variety of conditions, varying engine speed, bearing clearance, and oil viscosity. The results show …