Experience with use of S-1-U synthetic antifriction metal-ceramic material in thrust bearings of hydraulic generators

Abstract

1. The use of S-1-U antifriction material, instead of B83 babbitt, for coating metal pads improves substantially the reliability of the thrust bearings of hydraulic generators, while maintaining a high (over 90 kg/cm2) mean specific pressure in order to reduce the friction losses, the overall dimensions, and the quantity of metal in the thrust bearings. 2. The physicochemical, antifriction, and breaking-in properties of the S-1-U material permit improving the constructional and erection-operation parameters of thrust bearings and make it possible: a) to reduce the torque by a factor of about 4 and thus to facilitate the starting conditions as well as the rotation of the rotor in the shutdown unit; b) to eliminate the scraping of the pad bearing surfaces during erection and maintenance; c) to allow the temperature of the oil in the bearing bath to increase to 65°C; d) to start the units under low oil temperatures (5°C), and also after extended shutdowns without raising the rotor on the brakes; e) to avoid the use of a special installation for supplying oil under pressure to the friction surfaces, taking into account the fact that such an installation complicates the construction and operation of the thrust bearings. 3. Prospects have been opened for the manufacture of thrust bearings intended to operate under large axial loads (to 5000 tons).