Dynamic Characteristics and Stability Analysis of a Wavy Thrust Bearing

A numerical procedure to analyze wavy thrust bearings is described. The numerical model is developed by assuming that two circular plates rotate relative to each other. The upper plate is assumed to be flat and rotating, whereas the lower plate is assumed to be stationary and wavy in surface geometry. A Reynolds-equation-based procedure is used to simulate the dynamics engendered by various wavy geometries and loading conditions. The equilibrium position of the journal results from the equilibrium between the forces generated by the fluid-film pressures and the externally applied loads. A numerical small perturbation technique is applied to calculate the linear stiffness and damping characteristics of the bearing at the equilibrium position. Using a three-degrees-of-freedom system with one axial and two rotational displacements, nine linear stiffness coefficients (three principal and six cross-coupled coefficients) and nine linear damping coefficients are calculated. These linear coefficients are then used to calculate the eigenvalues of the system by solving the homogeneous equations of motion. The stability of the bearing system is then expressed using the lowest logarithmic decrement obtained from these eigenvalues. Using this procedure, a parametric study is carried out to examine the effects of external load, location of the applied load, bearing number, and bearing wave amplitude on journal equilibrium position, bearing linear stiffness, damping characteristics, and bearing stability.