Investigation Of Performance Of Manufacturing Of A Two-Lobe Hydrodynamic Bearing Using CNC Machining

Abstract

This research focuses on the design, CNC manufacturing, and performance evaluation of a two-lobe hydrodynamic journal bearing. Hydrodynamic bearings play a vital role in supporting high-speed rotating machinery, and the two-lobe configuration offers improved stability and load-bearing capacity compared to conventional circular. Bearings.A Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model of the two-lobe bearing was developed and transferred to a CAM system for tool path generation. The bearing was fabricated using CNC machining to ensure high dimensional accuracy and surface finish. Performance evaluation was carried out using both experimental testing and numerical simulations, analyzing parameters such as pressure distribution, film thickness, load capacity, and thermal behavior under varying operating conditions.The results demonstrate that the two-lobe bearing exhibits better dynamic stability and reduced vibration tendencies. CNC machining proved effective in achieving the complex geometry with consistent quality. This study validates the suitability of CNC-manufactured two-lobe hydrodynamic bearings for advanced engineering applications.