Theoretical Study of the Static and Dynamic Characteristics of a Slotted Adaptive Hydrostatic Thrust Bearing with a Regulator of the Lubricant Output Flow

Abstract

This manuscript considers the design of a slotted adaptive hydrostatic thrust bearing with a regulator of the lubricant output flow. A theoretical study of its static and dynamic characteristics was carried out. The aim of the study was to test the reliability of the hypothesis concerning the possibility of obtaining a stable-to-oscillation adaptive thrust bearing of negative compliance, avoiding the need for a complex system of external combined throttling by replacing it with a simple slotted throttle. Mathematical modeling of the thrust bearing movement was carried out. The possibility of reducing the compliance to negative values is shown, providing the bearing with an adaptive function, consisting of using the structure as a bearing and as an active deformation compensator of the elastic system of a metal-cutting machine in order to improve the quality of the metalwork. Analysis of load static characteristics showed that negative compliance is provided over a wide range of loads, which can be up to 75% or more of the range of permissible bearing loads. Based on the study of dynamic characteristics, it was concluded that with a targeted selection of parameters that have a major effect on the dynamics of the structure, the considered adaptive hydrostatic thrust bearing can attain a very high quality of dynamics. It is shown that the viscous damping of the lubricating film enclosed in the gaps and the damping of the material of the elastic ring of the regulator are important resources for ensuring the optimal dynamics of the thrust bearing.