A full numerical methodology was developed for the mixed lubrication analysis of hip implants, covering a continuous spectrum from full fluid film to boundary (dry contact) lubrication regimes. The methodology was applied to a typical hip implant employing an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) acetabular cup in articulation with a metallic femoral head. It was shown that as the viscosity decreased, direct contact was initiated at the exit regions both in the entraining and side-leakage directions where the minimum film thickness occurred. As the viscosity decreased further, the direct contact area increased and until eventually became similar to the dry contact area.
Volume Subject Area:
Applied Mechanics
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