An Influence of Fluid Inertia Forces on the Pressure Distributions of Step Thrust Bearings : 1st Report, Theoretical Analysis with Negligibly Small Entrance Pressure Differences

Abstract

The effects of fluid inertia forces on the pressure distributions of sector-shaped step thrust bearings operating in laminar and turbulent regimes are examined theoretically. Assuming negligibly small pressure differences at a leading edge of pad and evaluating the pressure differences at a step by considering the conservation of mechanical energy and the continuity of lubricant flows there, pressure distributions and load carrying capacities considering the effects of inertia forces are calculated for a wide range of film thickness ratios. The results obtained show that fluid inertial forces have significant effects on the pressure distributions of sector-shaped step thrust bearings.