The effect of a non-Newtonian lubricant on piston ring lubrication

The effect of a non-Newtonian oil (shear thinning) on the lubrication of a piston ring is theoretically investigated. A variation of shear strain rate with shear stress that is cubic in form is used to obtain a modified form of the Reynolds equation (dynamic) applicable to a run-in ring profile which is considered to be a double parabola with a central straight portion. Numerical solutions are obtained for the film thickness, pressure and frictional force over a complete stroke for the case of a constant load. Results presented in non-dimensional form show that the effect of pseudo plasticity is to reduce slightly the minimum film thickness, peak pressure ratio and friction coefficient.