Transfer lubrication techniques in a stick slip situation.

The thesis describes a theoretical and experimental investigation into the transfer lubrication technique as a means of eliminating stick slip vibratory motion. The experimental apparatus consisted of a replaceable disc fastened to a rotor supported in air journal bearings. The disc was driven rotationally via an elastic member and radially loaded by two diametrically opposed pistons pneumatically pressed against the disc circumference. A metal piston pressed against the metal disc induced the stick slip motion whilst the other piston consisted of a dry lubricant compact providing for the transfer of solid lubricant to the metal junction. Instrumentation was incorporated in order to measure appropriate stick slip properties and the major parameters of the system were varied.Unlubricated stick slip experimental results have been compared with analyses based upon upper and lower bound linearised dynamic friction models. Corresponding theoretical stability relationships have been developed for transfer lubricated conditions and experimental comparison also made. In additiondetailed circumstances whereby stick slip motion is successfully eliminated by transfer lubrication have been defined including limiting load ratio and oil contamination conditions.