Oil Film Thickness Measurement in Jet Engine Bearing Chambers: Experimental and Analytical Study

The goal of increasing the efficiency of modern jet engines extends beyond the main components to also include the secondary air and oil system. One of the most challenging components within the oil system is the bearing chamber. Oil films within the chamber are formed by oil droplets, ligaments, or film fragments that originate from bearings, seal plates, and shafts, entering the chamber with angular momentum. The behavior of the liquid film is strongly influenced by shear forces at its surface, gravity forces, and the design of scavenge and vent ports.

This study focuses on experimentally determining the thickness of the oil film in different geometries of bearing chambers, considering a wide range of engine-relevant conditions. Five capacitive probes are positioned at various circumferential locations in each configuration for data collection. Two analytical approaches are employed to comprehensively analyze the complex flow of the film.

In summary, this research aims to understand and quantify the behavior of oil films in bearing chambers under various conditions. The experimental approach, along with analytical methods, allows for a comprehensive investigation of the complex flow dynamics.