Title: A finite-element local mesh refinement model for treating mixed-lubrication in conrod bearings

Authors: Aurelian Fatu, Ingrid Riche, Dominique Bonneau

Addresses: Laboratory of Solid Mechanics, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 6610, 4 Av de Varsovie, 16021 Angouleme Cedex, France. ' Laboratory of Solid Mechanics, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 6610, 4 Av de Varsovie, 16021 Angouleme Cedex, France. ' Laboratory of Solid Mechanics, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 6610, 4 Av de Varsovie, 16021 Angouleme Cedex, France

Abstract: This paper presents a macro/micro scale finite-element local-refinement model developed in order to analyse mixed-lubrication conditions in Internal Combustion (IC) big-end conrod bearings. The initial coarse mesh is refined in the mixed-lubrication contact zones to obtain a good-enough representation of the contact pressure. The flow factor method and a statistical elasto-plastic asperity contact model are included. The results show important differences between the classical TEHD and the local-refinement model, especially in the estimation of the asperity contact pressure.

Keywords: mixed lubrication; local mesh refinement; big end conrod bearings; finite element method; modelling; FEM; TEHD models; internal combustion engines; elastoplastic asperity contact; asperity contact pressure; thermoelastohydrodynamic modelling.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSURFSE.2010.030486

International Journal of Surface Science and Engineering, 2010 Vol.4 No.2, pp.155 - 165

Published online: 18 Dec 2009 *

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