An experimental investigation of a gas lubricated stepped sector thrust bearing at high bearing numbers.

Abstract

The existing analytical solutions for gas lubricated stepped sector thrust bearings are reviewed. An experiment performed at high bearing numbers (123 to 165) using air at atmospheric pressure is described. Results are presented of tests conducted using a bearing optimized by the methods of Ausman and Wildmann for high speed operation, Most of the design optimizations are confirmed for high bearing numbers; the exception is load carrying capacity. The load capacity curve obtained takes the same form as that predicted by theory but is lower for any given bearing number by a constant percentage. This points to a need for re-evaluation of determination of load carrying capacity.