Dynamics of Offset Bearings: Parametric Studies

Abstract

Novel “offset” designs offer greatly improved durability in applications for which conventional journal bearings are only marginally satisfactory. They are particularly attractive for duty cycles which combine nonreversing loading with limited angular oscillation. Offset designs seem equally promising for steady-state operation with counter-rotation of shaft and sleeve under fixed load, or (equivalently) with load rotating at half shaft speed. Both cases are elucidated through (dimensional) numerical examples and (nondimensional) parametric studies. In both cases performance of full journal bearings is shown to be both significantly improved by small offsets and fairly insensitive to small departures from optimal values.