Michel Fillon

Bio: Michel Fillon is an academic researcher from University of Poitiers. The author has contributed to research in topics: Bearing (mechanical) & Thrust bearing. The author has an hindex of 35, co-authored 132 publications receiving 3550 citations. Previous affiliations of Michel Fillon include Institut Pprime.

Optimizing surface texture for hydrodynamic lubricated contacts using a mass-conserving numerical approach

Abstract: Surface texturing has been shown to reduce friction and increase the film thickness in various tribological applications (hydrodynamic bearings, mechanical seals, and cylinder—liner contacts). However, only few studies discuss optimal texturing properties, and most of them focus on the optimal dimple shape. This article proposes an in-depth study on the influence of cavitation and of different texturing parameters, especially the dimple depth, the texture extent, and the dimple aspect, on the hydrodynamic performance of textured contacts. The results are derived numerically, for contacts between plane surfaces that are parallel or inclined with respect to each other. The performance gains (film thickness and friction force) obtained by texturing are evaluated with respect to the performance of smooth contacts. Most notable findings are the optimal extent of the textured region (partial texturing and trapezoidal shape) and the optimal dimple aspect (longitudinal). Cavitation is shown to have a sign...

Effects of surface texture on journal-bearing characteristics under steady-state operating conditions:

Abstract: Developments in microscopy have a profound effect on the resurgence of tribological applications at the microscopic level. Using surfaces with controlled microgeometry may prove an effective approach to improving bearing performance. It is consequently of interest to study the lubrication of journal bearing systems taking into consideration the effect of surface geometry design. A numerical approach is used in the analysis of texture effects on bearing characteristics. The results from investigating the performance of bearing surfaces with spherical dimple textures suggest that contact characteristics such asminimumfilm thickness, maximumpressure, axial oil film flow, and friction torque may be improved through an appropriate surface texture geometry and appropriate textures distribution on the contact surface. The main purpose of our work is to model and understand the evolution of journal-bearing characteristics with textures. A rigorous methodology is recommended. The work is divided into two s...

About the validity of Reynolds equation and inertia effects in textured sliders of infinite width

Abstract: Numerous recent studies focus on modelling the lubricant flow in macro-textured configurations, using the Navier-Stokes, Stokes, and Reynolds equations. Several of these studies show that important, lift generating inertia effects are present in textured configurations, and conclude that Reynolds assumptions do not hold true for such contacts. A similar analysis is performed in this paper, for parallel sliders of infinite width, but with quite different conclusions. Two main observations are made based on the results presented herein: (a) inertia effects cannot be analysed by single texture cell models - for example, in the case of partial inlet texturing, inertia shows a clear negative influence, contradicting the previously reported lift generating effects; (b) the validity of Reynolds equation in textured sliders cannot be decided by the Reynolds number (Re) alone, and the texture aspect ratio (λ) has an equally important influence on Reynolds equation validity. Finally, charts presenting the r...

Polymer composites for tribological applications

Abstract: Many different polymers and polymer composites are used for engineering applications in which friction and wear are critical issues. This article briefs (a) the importance of polymer tribology in general, (b) the special design principles of polymer composites for low friction and wear under sliding against smooth metallic counterparts, and (c) synergistic effects of nano-particles and traditional fillers and fibers for an optimal tribological performance. Based on these fundamental aspects, the article reviews traditional applications of polymeric tribo-components in mechanical and automotive engineering, including slide elements in textile machines, filament wound bushings for harsh environments, cages of high-precision ball bearings in dental turbines, and hybrid bushings in Diesel fuel injection pumps. A following chapter on special developments of tribo-components outlines (a) ways to achieve electrical conductivity of polymer bearings, (b) the enhancement of self-lubrication and self-healing potential by the incorporation of micro-capsules into the polymer matrix, (c) modern additive manufacturing methods for friction and wear loaded polymer parts, (d) the application and properties of high temperature polymer coatings, and (e) the composition and use of polymer composites under friction at cryogenic temperature conditions.