Measuring contact pressure distributions under elastohydrodynamic point contacts

Circular point contact EHD pressure distributions were investigated under various operating conditions using a thin film piezo-resistive pressure transducer. A series of controlled experiments, in which the active element of the transducer is positioned at various contact cross-sections, was carried out. The results are analysed and presented in the form of isobars. The pressure distribution closely describes the Hertzian pressure profile with a secondary pressure peak appearing prior to and near the exit constriction.