Numerical Analysis of Stiffness of Self-Acting Air Bearings of Various Curvatures.

Abstract

Self-acting air bearings are increasingly used in supporting small high-speed rotating bodies. In this study we report on the effects of design parameters on the axial stiffness of spiral-grooved air bearings of various curvatures. The design parameters selected in this study include fundamental clearance, groove depth, and bearing number. Coordinate transformation is performed to deal effectively with bearings of various curvatures. The pressure distribution at the gap between the stator and rotor of the bearing is obtained numerically, and the axial load and the stiffness of the bearing are calculated from the pressure distribution results.