Optimization of Clearance in a Squeeze-Film Journal Bearing

Abstract

It is shown that a squeeze-film journal bearing supporting a mass completely contained within the bearing can be designed with the optimum value of minimum clearance by proper selection of the drive amplitude to nominal clearance ratio, the length to diameter ratio, and the shape factor of the excursion. Both a small parameter and an augmented, small parameter analysis are given. In the latter case, numerical methods are employed to solve the resulting equations. The results of the analysis are illustrated in application to an accelerometer design.