Transient TEHD Analysis of a Thrust Bearing Based on Two-Way Fluid-Solid-Thermal Interaction

Abstract

Abstract Thrust bearing is a key component of hydroelectric generator and bears the axial load of the unit. During transient processes, such as start and stop of the unit, thrust bearing usually occurs wear phenomenon at pad surface, which affects the stable operation of the unit and reduces service life of the bearing. Based on two-way fluid-solid-thermal interaction, this paper did transient thermal-elastic-hydrodynamic (TEHD) analysis of a tilting pad thrust bearing under the pump mode. For the fluid region, the Reynolds equation and the viscosity-temperature equation are solved. For the solid region, transient heat conduction equation and basic thermal-elasticity equation are considered. The data transferred in the fluid-solid interface satisfy the fluid-solid-thermal interaction equation. The variation of the lubricant oil temperature, the oil film force, the pad surface inclination angle and axial velocity of pad and mirror plate are analysed, which provide theoretical basis for the design of bearing and the safe operation of the unit.