Elastohidrodinámico

Elastohidrodinámico refers to a lubrication regime that occurs in highly elastic or highly deformable materials under contact. Unlike traditional hydrodynamic lubrication, where the fluid pressure is generated by the motion of surfaces, elastohydrodynamic lubrication involves the elastic deformation of the solid surfaces themselves. This deformation plays a crucial role in the formation of the lubricating film.

In elastohydrodynamic lubrication, the conjunction of moving surfaces and a pressurized lubricant causes the solids to deform elastically. This deformation is significant enough to increase the effective gap between the surfaces, thereby allowing a thicker lubricating film to be sustained than would be possible through hydrodynamic action alone in rigid bodies. The pressure generated within the lubricant is extremely high, often exceeding the yield strength of the bulk material but not causing permanent deformation.

This phenomenon is particularly important in heavily loaded contacts such as gears, rolling element bearings, and cams. The formation of an elastohydrodynamic film prevents direct metal-to-metal contact, reducing friction and wear, and extending the life of the components. The properties of the lubricant, such as its viscosity and compressibility, along with the elastic moduli of the contacting solids, are critical factors determining the characteristics of the elastohydrodynamic film. The interplay between fluid pressure and solid deformation is the defining feature of this lubrication regime.