Measurements of static loading characteristics of a Flexurepivot Tilt Pad Hydrodynamic Bearing

Abstract

An experimental investigation examining the static loading characteristics of a four-pad, KMC FLEXUREPIVOT Tilt Pad Hydrodynamic Bearing is presented. Tests are conducted on the TRACE Fluid Film Bearing Element Test Rig for journal speeds ranging from 1,800 to 4,500 RPM, and applied static loads betweeen [sic] pads to 1,400 N. Results obtained from measurements of bearing eccentricities and bearing pad temperatures were compared to numerical predictions. Drag torque losses were also estimated using a simple thermal model for the bearing assembly. Comparisons between theory and experimental results indicate good correlation for measured eccentricities for a wide range of applied static loads and journal speeds. Negligible displacements in the direction orthogonal to the applied load verified the expected stability of this bearing geometry over this range of operating conditions. Thermal analysis of the bearing system lead to good prediction of the bearing torque losses, and indicated that the majority of the energy within the system is transferred via convection.