NLS clutching bearing cavity flow analysis

A flow model of the NLS clutching bearing cavity was built for 2-D axisymmetric viscous analysis. From the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach, the tangential force exerted on the surfaces of the inner race was integrated to calculate the dividing torque which, in conjunction with the resistance torque, was used to predict the operating speed of the inner race. In order to further reduce the inner race rotation, the swirling flow at the cavity inlet was partially redirected to generate an opposing torque. Thirty six slanted slots were incorporated into the anti-vortex rib to achieve this goal. A 3-D flow analysis performed on this configuration indicates a drastic reduction of the driving torque and inner race RPM.