Dynamic Characteristics of TEHD Tilt Pad Journal Bearing Simulation Including Multiple Mode Pad Flexibility Model

Abstract

An approach for incorporating the heat transfer and elastic deformation effects into dynamic coefficient calculation is presented. A global analysis method is used, which finds the equilibrium pad tilt angles at each eccentricity position and includes cross-film variable viscosity, heat transfer effects in the lubricant, elastic deformation, heat conduction effects in the pads, and elastic deformation effect in the pivots. Deflection modes are used to approximate deformation of the top surface of the pads. The dynamic coefficients of a single pad are calculated at the equilibrium state of the bearing, based on numerical perturbation with respect to the bearing degrees of freedom. These include journal position, pad rotation, pivot deformation, and modal coordinates. The stiffness and damping coefficients are calculated and show very good agreement with experimental and numerical results from the existing literature.