Experimental research on a hydrodynamic thrust bearing with hydrostatic lift pockets: Influence of lubrication modes on bearing performance

Abstract

The aim of the study is to investigate the performance of a thrust bearing equipped with hydrostatic lift pockets under different lubrication modes. Three types of flat land bearing lubrication modes are studied experimentally: hydrostatic lubrication (HS; forced oil injection to the pockets), hybrid lubrication (HS + HD; hydrostatic lubrication combined with the external forced bearing oil supply) and hydrodynamic lubrication (HD; external forced bearing lubrication acting alone). Tests are performed for steady and transient states of bearing operation. The obtained results confirmed that the load- carrying capacity of the flat land bearing is poor, and the introduction of hydrostatic lubrication improves its performance. The speed is found to be a critical parameter: as it increases, the hydrostatic effect is affected and the film thickness is reduced.