Theoretical Analysis and Optimum Design for High-Speed Thrust Gas Bearings : Part2,Experimental Verification

Abstract

This second paper describes the measurements of static and dynamic characteristics of stepped, pocketed, spiral groove and herringbone gas film thrust bearings. In the experiments, the minimum film thickness, friction torque on the bearing surface and spring and damping coefficients of gas film are measured for a range of rotational speed from 20,000 rpm to 40,000 rpm under a constant stator mass and a fixed step, pocket or groove depth. The measured data are compared with the theoretical results and the applicability of the theory is discussed.