Analysis of Lubrication Characteristics of Marine Stern Bearings under Wear Area Conditions

This research employs a simulation method to explore the lubrication properties of marine stern bearings in wear scenarios. Initially, an accurate mechanical model of the stern bearing and journal was constructed to characterize their original configuration. The model was subsequently imported into specialized simulation software to conduct computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and tribological simulations. The simulation process particularly examined how geometric deformations induced by wear (such as reduced effective contact length) influence lubrication behavior. By quantifying wear severity through variations in bearing length (representing differing contact areas), realistic operational conditions were effectively simulated. The research successfully established quantitative relationships between wear levels, fluid film parameters, and bearing stiffness, clearly revealing the degradation mechanisms of lubrication performance under various wear states. The findings hold significant engineering value, providing robust support for optimizing stern bearing structural design, improving lifespan prediction accuracy, and enhancing the reliability of marine propulsion systems. This advancement contributes substantially to promoting safer and more efficient navigation practices in the maritime industry.