The order of magnitude of the Reynolds number in thin lubricant films varies between 102 and 105. For Reynolds numbers higher than 103, the fluid flow becomes turbulent. It is well accepted in lubrication to use a zero equation turbulence model of the type developed by Constantinescu [1] or Elrod, Ng and Pan [2–4] or Hirs [5]. The Elrod and Ng approach is certainly the most efficient for combined pressure and shear flows where the Reynolds number is above 104. This paper proposes a modification of the Elrod and Ng model in order to ensure a good correlation with experimental data obtained with low Reynolds number turbulent flows. The present model, coupled with a scaling factor for taking into account the transition to turbulence, is therefore accurate for all the typical Reynolds number values recorded in lubrication. The model is then applied to hydrostatic noncontacting face seals, which usually operate at Reynolds numbers varying from 103 to 104. The accuracy of the model is shown for this particular application of radial rotating flow. A special study is made of the transition to turbulence. The results are compared with those obtained using the initial Elrod and Ng model. The axial stiffness coefficient and the stability threshold are significantly affected by the turbulence model.
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ASME/STLE 2004 International Joint Tribology Conference
October 24–27, 2004
Long Beach, California, USA
Conference Sponsors:
- Tribology Division
ISBN:
0-7918-4181-2
PROCEEDINGS PAPER
A Modified Turbulence Model for Low Reynolds Numbers: Applications to Hydrostatic Seals
Noe¨l Brunetie`re
Noe¨l Brunetie`re
Universite´ de Poitiers, Futuroscope Chasseneuil Cedex, France
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Noe¨l Brunetie`re
Universite´ de Poitiers, Futuroscope Chasseneuil Cedex, France
Paper No:
TRIB2004-64026, pp. 503-515; 13 pages
Published Online:
December 22, 2008
Citation
Brunetie`re, N. "A Modified Turbulence Model for Low Reynolds Numbers: Applications to Hydrostatic Seals." Proceedings of the ASME/STLE 2004 International Joint Tribology Conference. ASME/STLE 2004 International Joint Tribology Conference, Parts A and B. Long Beach, California, USA. October 24–27, 2004. pp. 503-515. ASME. https://doi.org/10.1115/TRIB2004-64026
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