Numerical Analysis of the Gas-Lubricated Spiral-Groove Thrust Bearing-Compressor

Abstract

The isothermal Reynolds differential equation of gas film lubrication is written in finite-difference form for numerical analysis of the pressure distribution within spiral-groove thrust bearings and compressors. Appropriate jump equations are presented which provide flow continuity at the land-to-groove interfaces. Gas flow, load support, static stiffness, power consumption, and compressor efficiency are computed and theoretical performance curves are presented for this device. Agreement between computed data and experiment is discussed and presented in graphical form.