Computational Modelling of Mixed Thermo-Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication of Sliding Bearings - Wind Turbines Application

• Grant number: 23/15225-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: December 01, 2023
• End date: November 30, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Francisco José Profito
• Grantee: Tiago Gaspar da Rosa
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/03110-0 - Tribological analyses and solutions for high-performance sliding bearings: wind turbine applications, AP.PNGP.PI

Abstract

To investigate the potential application of sliding bearings in wind turbines, the selected candidate will develop a computational platform for simulating the tribological behaviour of sliding bearings operating in mixed thermo-elastohydrodynamic lubrication regimes and different working conditions (e.g., steady-state and transient operation with intermittent cycles). The selected candidate will use as initial tools numerical models for simulating isothermal lubrication problems and will emphasise the elaboration and implementation of more advanced models to consider the coupling of thermal effects, fluid-film cavitation, and non-Newtonian fluid behaviour. Subsequently, the selected candidate will conduct simulations to evaluate the potential application of sliding bearings in wind turbines using real design and operational data (e.g., loads, speeds and lubricant properties). The selected candidate will also help analyse the influence of the synergy between thermal effects, surface texturing, use of different materials/surface coatings and lubricant rheology on the tribological performance of the studied bearings. Furthermore, a one-year research internship abroad is planned, where the selected candidate will perform the rheological characterisation of wind turbine lubricants and experimental tests to validate the computational models. The results of this work will be published at conferences and scientific articles and may contribute to developing innovative technologies for sliding bearings with higher performance, durability and reliability for wind turbine applications.