Fluid Film Bearings

A hydrodynamic fluid film bearing in which a plurality of circumferentially spaced bearing elements are provided, defining areas of support for the rotating part of the bearing. At least some of the bearing elements are adjustable during operation to vary lubrication conditions in the fluid film. The bearing elements are of sufficiently high stiffness that the position of the entire bearing surface of each element is essentially independent of the pressure in the fluid film encountered during operation. The bearing allows complete control of the lubrication conditions and can be adjusted for optimum performance over a wide range of speed and load

The design and development of a high speed journal bearing test rig for measuring dynamic characteristics of oil film bearings

This paper outlines the design and development of a test rig used to determine the dynamic characteristics of oil film journal bearings. Some background is given on the main design, operating parameters, and instrumentation systems. Recent developments include the ability to test at higher speeds using a specially designed drive motor and new test and analysis techniques. Newly commissioned software and detailed design improvements have also been incorporated to enable the rig to be used on a continuing basis for a range of bearing types and sizes. Some typical output plots are given for a 5 pad pivoted shoe bearing. A tribute is given to the late Keith Brockwell, a respected colleague and fellow researcher in the field