Externally Pressurised Optimum Bearing with Micropolar Fluid as Lubricant

The characteristics of an externally pressurised bearing, using lubricant suspension, characterized as a micropolar fluid, are studied. By using the techniques of calculus of variation, the optimum film thickness profile for maximum load capacity is investigated. It is shown that the maximum load capacity increases as the step height ratio or the parameter characterizing the micro-structure of the suspension increases. The effects of these parameters on the flow flux are also pointed out.