Numerical analysis on the performance characteristics of a new gas journal bearing by using finite difference method

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel gas journal bearing in which orifices are different in diameter and distribute unevenly. Finite Difference Method (FDM) combined with Linear Perturbation Method (LPM) is used to solve the unsteady-state Reynolds equation of the flow field in the bearing clearance. Moreover, four types of bearing structures are used to discuss the effects of orifices different in diameter and uneven distribution on the bearing performance. The results demonstrate that the new bearing has better static and dynamic performances compared with those of traditional bearing in which orifices are equal in diameter and distribute evenly. Moreover, thin gas film thickness, high supply pressure, and large eccentricity ratio are hopeful for improving load capacity of the new bearing. Furthermore, the stability of the novel bearing is improved if eccentricity ratio is 0.25–0.3.