Performance Characteristics of Flared Bearings

Abstract

The paper offers an analysis of finite journal bearings having an axially variable clearance. Such bearings are encountered either as a consequence of manufacturing errors and wear, or as configurations specifically designed to accommodate journal misalignment. The Reynolds equation is solved for the appropriate boundary conditions and film geometry by finite difference methods. Tables of computer solutions and a number of graphs provide the performance characteristics of misaligned bearings for a wide range of parameters. The results show that striking advantages can be achieved by the use of flared bearings for cases of moderate and severe journal misalignment.