Session
2026 Session 3
Location
Orem, UT
Start Date
5-4-2026 9:40 AM
Description
This work presents a physics-based, time-dependent finite element framework for modeling thin-film lubrication in journal bearings. The model resolves the coupled evolution of hydrodynamic pressure and lubricant film thickness over the bearing surface using the nonlinear, transient Reynolds equation. By incorporating time dependence and nonlinear film geometry effects, the formulation enables dynamic simulation of bearing and gearbox lubrication under operating conditions.
The hydrodynamic model is implemented in the Julia finite element library Gridap. Gridap was selected for its computational efficiency, ease of extensibility, and existing support for modeling the steady Reynold’s equation with variational multiscale functionality. Building upon this stabilized framework, the present work extends the formulation to a fully nonlinear, time-dependent solver suitable for dynamic lubrication analysis.
A Nonlinear Finite Element Framework for Dynamic Thin-Film Lubrication Modeling
Orem, UT
This work presents a physics-based, time-dependent finite element framework for modeling thin-film lubrication in journal bearings. The model resolves the coupled evolution of hydrodynamic pressure and lubricant film thickness over the bearing surface using the nonlinear, transient Reynolds equation. By incorporating time dependence and nonlinear film geometry effects, the formulation enables dynamic simulation of bearing and gearbox lubrication under operating conditions.
The hydrodynamic model is implemented in the Julia finite element library Gridap. Gridap was selected for its computational efficiency, ease of extensibility, and existing support for modeling the steady Reynold’s equation with variational multiscale functionality. Building upon this stabilized framework, the present work extends the formulation to a fully nonlinear, time-dependent solver suitable for dynamic lubrication analysis.