Load carrying capacity of a novel magnetic-liquid double suspension fixed pad thrust bearing

Abstract

Purpose Proposing a new type of water-lubricated thrust bearing meets the load-bearing requirements of high-power shaft-less rim driven thrusters. Design/methodology/approach The designs were tested by establishing a bearing thermal-fluid-magnetic comprehensive simulation model and developing bearing fluid film force and magnetic simulation. Lubrication performance tests were carried out on the bearing test rig. Findings The Halbach array of magnet blocks is able to reach the maximum magnetic force. The material of sheath can help increase the magnetism. The magnetism is able to reduce wear during low-speed and the start-stop phase, while the eddy current loss at high speeds will lead to a decrease in magnetic force. The experiment found that the bearing was more stable at low speeds and would not demagnetize due to the temperature rise, but it is necessary to pay attention to the running stability at high speeds to prevent rubbing and impact. Originality/value An innovative combination of hydrodynamic pressure and permanent magnetic repulsion was observed to form a magnetic-liquid double suspension bearing with large bearing capacity. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2020-0295