Optimization of Self-Acting Step Thrust Bearings for Load Capacity and Stiffness

Abstract

A linearized analysis of a finite width rectangular step thrust bearing was performed. Dimensionless load capacity and stiffness are expressed in terms of a Fourier cosine series. The dimensionless load capacity and stiffness were found to be a function of the dimensionless bearing number Λ, the pad length-to-width ratio λ, the film thickness ratio κ, the step location parameter Ψ, and the feed groove parameter η. The equations obtained in the analysis were verified. The assumptions imposed were substantiated by comparison of the results with an existing exact solution for the infinite width bearing. A digital computer program was developed which determines optimal bearing configuration for maximum load capacity or stiffness. Simple design curves are presented. Results are shown for both compressible and incompressible lubrication. Through a parameter transformation the results are directly usable in designing optimal step sector thrust bearings. Presented at the 26th ASLE Annual Meeting in Boston, Massac...