The Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Force in the Squeeze Motion of Hertzian Deformable Bodies

(Received 2 June 1995, revised 15 September 1995, accepted 13 October 1995)

Abstract
The elastohydrodynamic force on two slightly deformable bodies approaching one another head on is calculated in the limit of small gap sizes and small deformations by combining Hertz's theory of deformation and lubrication theory. An expression for the lubrication force analytical in the deformation and gap size is obtained. The effect of the gap size, the elasticity and the velocity of approach on the lubrication force is demonstrated. Further, the lubrication force with a pressure dependent viscosity is calculated.