Predicted Performance Characteristics of Hybrid, Fluid-Equalized, Tilting-Pad Thrust Bearings

Abstract

The concept of a fluid-equalized, tilting-pad thrust bearing is presented. Load augmentation is introduced by external pressurization through the pad pivots. Performance characteristics were obtained for two different external hybrid supply systems. One system is completely independent of the equalizing system; the other utilizes a common supply and equalization system with separate control pads fixed to the support structure. The bearing retains (and may improve upon) the advantages of equalization and alignment inherent in hydrodynamic tilting-pad, leveling-link thrust bearings and permits significantly added load capacity.