THD analysis of compliant journal bearings considering liner deformation

A numerical THD model is developed to investigate the effect of lining compliance on the bearing characteristics. The analysis shows increased load carrying capacity, significantly reduced peak pressures and thicker oil film in the loaded zone compared to a white metal bearing. Slightly thinner oil films are predicted at the bearing edges. Temperature and power loss are found to be similar for some load–speed combinations but higher for other operating conditions. It is also shown that load carrying capacity is more sensitive to thermal expansion while pressure and oil film thickness profiles are more sensitive to elastic deformation.

► High performance compliant bearings are analysed.
► Influence of mechanical and thermal deformations is analysed.
► Compliant bearing provides increased load carrying capacity.
► Up to 40% lower maximum pressure and similar oil film temperature.
► More favourable pocket shape, oil film distribution.