The article proposes the development of a mathematical model that includes an integrated approach to modeling the interaction of surfaces, taking into account the geometric features of the groove. An important aspect of the novelty of the work is its validation based on experimental data. To describe the movement of the lubricant in the working gap, a model is used that describes the movement of a truly viscous lubricant, including the continuity equation. The calculations and experiments performed have confirmed the adequacy of the proposed model, which indicates the possibility of its practical application for engineering analysis and design. The results of this work made it possible to improve the understanding of the mechanism of movement of the lubricant in radial sliding bearings having a polymer coating with an axial groove on the shaft surface. Studies have also shown that the presence of a groove on the shaft surface affects the pressure distribution, which, in turn, affects the tribotechnical parameters of the bearing. The introduction of the groove helps to distribute the lubricant more efficiently over the working gap, increase the bearing capacity of the bearing, reduce the coefficient of friction and reduce wear on the contact surfaces.

Keywords: radial bearing, wear resistance assessment, antifriction polymer coating, groove, hydrodynamic mode, verification