Reverse squeeze film flow in a continous flow system

The continuous-flow squeeze film apparatus has been adapted to permit flow to take place in either direction. This simulates normal and reversed squeezing flow between discs by having liquid moving through the lower plate, with neither plate moving. The liquid exudes from 1580 uniformly-distributed holes in the plate surface. All tests were performed at a temperature of 24.0°C.Water is used in early tests, and it is shown that the contribution to load bearing from the inertia of the fluid is comparable in reverse and normal flows; fluid inertia increases the force which would be required to move the plates in either direction. A novel “mirror image” graphical presentation is used.Tests using a dilute polymer solution show load enhancement effects for both normal and reversed squeeze film flow. The enhancement is roughly equal in both directions of flow, with no transient effects, and fluid elasticity increases the force which would be required to move the plates in either direction. It is suggested that the stress developed in the fluid is independent of the direction of flow.The significance of the tests regarding lubricating problems is mentioned; the important case of rapid load reversal requires further attention.