Slot-Entry Bearings for Hybrid Hydrodynamic and Hydrostatic Operation

Abstract

Slot-entry bearings are compared with conventional hydrodynamic bearings and also with recessed hydrostatic bearings. Whereas recessed bearings are not ideal for hybrid operation, improvements in load capacity can be achieved by the use of non-return valves in the supply lines. However, it is shown that a much improved performance may be obtained from slot-entry bearings. Slot-entry bearings have additional advantages of manufacturing simplicity and compactness when compared with other hybrid bearings. Experimental results for recessed bearings and for slot-entry bearings justify computer solutions at moderate values of eccentricity ratio and speed parameters.