Oil film mixed lubrication of heavy-load friction pairs: Theoretical modeling, solution methods, and applications

The importance of heavy-load friction pairs is highlighted by the extensive use of heavy machinery in large engineering projects. Their performance under mixed lubrication conditions directly impacts efficiency, reliability, and service life. Accurately and effectively establishing a lubrication characteristic model for the oil film in friction pairs and solving it is of paramount importance. Currently, there is a lack of systematic analysis and summaries of models in this field. This work comprehensively reviews the modeling and solution methods, as well as the core challenges, associated with the oil film characteristics of heavy-load friction pairs under mixed lubrication. It also provides detailed descriptions of typical applications for each method. Finally, based on previous research, this paper outlines future development directions. The review aims to provide model guidance for improving the lubrication performance and extending the service life of heavy-load friction pairs, promoting the application of mixed lubrication theory in engineering practice.