The Effect of Different Lubrication Methods on the Performance of a Tilting-Pad Journal Bearing

Abstract

This paper contains the results of comparisons between the effects of three different lubrication methods, flooded, directed and leading-edge, on the performance of a tilting-pad journal bearing. Experimental pad temperatures and power loss data are presented for a 127 mm diameter, four pad bearing, operating over a range of shaft speeds up to 7000 rpm (46.6 m/s) and loads up to 22 kN (1.3 MPa). The experimental data indicate that temperature and power loss reductions are attainable with the use of the different lubrication methods. However, these are not as significant as those achieved with their use in tilting-pad thrust bearings.