Point Contact Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication and Wear in Intermittent Motion

Abstract Intermittent motion is a complex process that involves constant speed, deceleration, static stages, and acceleration. Theoretical analysis suggests that shortening the period of intermittent motion can increase the film thickness during static stages, thereby extending the life of the part. Currently, an increasing number of studies are focusing on small oscillatory movements or vibrations. However, the impact of intermittent motion cycles on the film thickness and wear in the contact area still needs to be investigated. Optical interference and acoustic emission (AE) were employed as experimental methods to investigate simple sliding point contact intermittent motion. The lubrication state transition of full film-starvation-wear in the contact area was observed and the experimental results confirmed the correctness of the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) theoretical analysis. Additionally, the regularity of starvation and AE signal change with time during intermittent motion were summarized. An in-depth analysis of the reasons why intermittent motion with a short period generates less wear was performed. This analysis provides novel ideas to reduce wear of intermittent motion mechanisms. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of the wear during intermittent motion and provides essential insights for wear reduction in this area.