Preliminary experimental study on static loading characteristics of multi-decked protuberant foil thrust bearing

Abstract

In the fluid film lubrication of high speed turbomachinery, bearing performance plays a significant role in the dynamics of the rotor-bearing system. In this paper, a novel foil thrust bearing using multi-decked protuberant foils as supporting structure is developed and tested. Experimental bearing test rig using gas-driven high speed turbo-expander is set up to evaluate static loading characteristics of the bearing. Static stiffness, friction torque, nominal bearing clearance and axial vibration amplitude are discussed in the transient processes. Static loading characteristic of the bearing is evaluated based on the relationship between displacement and loading force. Test results indicate that this simply configured thrust bearing has a good prospect in high speed hydrodynamic lubrication.