Theoretical Analysis and Optimum Design of High Speed Gas Film Thrust Bearings (Static and Dynamic Characteristic Analysis with Experimental Verifications)

Abstract

This paper describes the theoretical and experimental investigations of static and dynamic characteristics of four types of high-speed gas film thrust bearings, such as stepped, pocketed, spiral and herring bone grooved bearings. The specially designed test rig is used to measure the air film thickness, friction torque, spring and damping coefficients of air film under the high speed operation conditions from 20000 rpm to 40000 rpm. It is verified that the maximum error in the measurements by the present test rig is less than 7 percent. On the other hand, the measured results are compared with the theoretical results for checking the applicability of numerical analysis method to bearing design. Good agreements are seen between the measured results and theoretical predictions, and applicability of theoretical prediction method is confirmed with experimental verifications.