Journal Bearing Pressure
Journal Bearing Pressure
Plain bearings are rated on projected pressure — the load spread over the diameter times length — to limit wear and heating.
The bearing pressure is p = W/(L·D). where W is the load, L the bearing length and D the journal diameter.
Inputs
W := 8 kN=8000 N
L := 50 mm=50 mm
D := 40 mm=40 mm
Spread the load over the projected area.
p := W/(L·D)=4 MPa
Results
The pressure must stay below the bearing material’s limit; the pressure–velocity (PV) product also governs heat generation.
Assumptions & limitations
- Projected area (L × D).
- Steady radial load.
- Adequate lubrication.