Parallel surfaces lubricated by a bubbly oil

A theory of the effect of gas bubbles upon parallel-surfaced hydrodynamic bearings is presented.The analysis applies to “infinitely” wide isothermal bearings, but conclusions are also drawn on the behaviour of finite bearings. It is shown that no self-sustained pressure is established, but that a pressure profile generated otherwise can be strongly modified to yield a near doubling of the load capacity and unaltered friction; and for a fixed load, lowered friction and increased mass flow through the bearing.