Numerical Analysis for Influence of Plastic and Elastic Deformation of Rough Surfaces on PEHL for Line Contacts

In the present paper, analysis of elasto-plasto-hydrodynamic lubrication (PEHL) in the line contact is carried out to investigate the effect of heavily loaded roll-over on the change in profile of indents. The pressure and film thickness profiles are obtained to solve the Reynolds and film thickness equations simultaneously. And, both the elastic and plastic deformations of the contact, featured with an indent, have been considered. A multi-grid numerical algorithm used in EHL of line contacts is modified and then used for the oil lubricated rolling contacts. In the program, stress and plastic deformation of the indent profile are calculated with the hardening plastic stress-strain relationship according to the theories of plasticity when pressure excesses the yield stress. The results, with and without considering plastic deformation, are compared to show the different influences on the pressure and film thickness. Analysis shows that since the plastic deformation will change the surface roughness, it will significantly change the pressure but film thickness.