2002 Volume 2002 Issue 5-1 Pages 233-238
The mixed lubrication characteristics of hydrostatic thrust pad bearings under eccentrically and dynamically loaded conditions are studied theoretically. On the basis of the operation of hydraulic pumps and motors, the eccentricity of loads, time-lag of changes in between the supply pressure and loads, surface roughness, recess volume and the bulk modulus of liquids are examined. The basic equations applying the perturbation method are developed; the three dimensional motion of the bearing is simulated; and the solutions including the pressure distributions, friction, flow rate, power loss and the stiffness are obtained. The calculations indicate that: The eccentric load causes local contacts. The preceding change in loads poses the larger motion of the pad. As the recess volume increases or the bulk modulus decreases, the bearing stiffness decreases.
