Measurements of Rotordynamic Coefficients of Hybrid Bearings With (a) a Plugged Orifice, and (b) a Worn Land Surface

Abstract

Test results are presented for the rotordynamic coefficients of a hybrid bearing that is representative of bearings for liquid-rocket-engine turbopump applications. The bearing is tested in the following two degraded conditions: (a) one of five orifices plugged, and (b) a locally enlarged clearance to simulate a worn condition. Test data are presented at 24,600 rpm, with supply pressures of 4.0, 5.5, and 7.0 MPa, and eccentricity ratios from 0.1 to 0.5 in 0.1 increments. Overall, the results suggest that neither a single plugged orifice nor significant wear on the bearing land will “disable” a well-designed hybrid bearing. These results do not speak to multiple plugged orifices and are not an endorsement for operations without filters to prevent plugging orifices.