Measured Temperature Characteristics of 152 mm Diameter Pivoted Shoe Journal Bearings with Flooded Lubrication

Abstract

The steady-state performance characteristics of journal bearings sometimes impose limitations on the operation of high-speed rotating machinery. Such limitations in bearing performance might be the result of one or more of the following: inadequate load carrying capacity, unacceptably high operating temperatures, and inefficient component performance. Lowering operating temperatures helps to boost the bearing's load and/or speed capability, and reducing bearing power loss and/or oil flow requirements improves machine efficiency.

In response to the need to improve bearing performance, the authors have conducted extensive testing of the pivoted shoe journal (PSJ) bearing. This paper describes work from the first phase of the study, in which the effects of independent design and operating variables on the metal temperatures of flooded lubricated, PSJ bearings are examined experimentally. These variables include pivot location, load orientation, shaft speed, and bearing load. In conclusion, it is shown that some of the independent variables have a significant influence on bearing performance, after comparing pad temperature profiles, isotherms, and maximum temperatures.

The study was performed on a rig that measures steady-state performance under light to moderately heavy unit loads, and comparatively high operating speeds. These conditions are representative of modern-day rotating machinery, particularly new turbine and compressor designs.

Presented at the 56th Annual Meeting Orlando, Florida May 20–24, 2001

KEY WORDS:

• Bearings
• Hydrodynamic
• Fluid Film Bearings
• Tilting-Pad Bearings

Notes

Presented at the 56th Annual Meeting Orlando, Florida May 20–24, 2001