The Performance of a Sealed Squeeze-Film Bearing in a Flexible Support Structure

Abstract

In this paper attention is given to empirically modelling the hydrodynamics of a tightly sealed squeeze-film bearing in a flexible support structure simulating an aero-engine assembly, with a view to assessing its damping performance. It is found that predictable experimental results are obtained by employing an end-leakage factor which relates the outlet pressure around the bearing circumference to the corresponding ‘long-bearing’ pressure. The present work complements that covered in an earlier paper (1), which was concerned with the performance of an open-ended or weakly sealed squeeze-film bearing in a similar support structure.