Dynamic characteristics of compliant journal bearings considering thermal effects

A numerical THD model that takes into account mechanical and thermal deformations of a compliant lining is used to investigate the influence of compliance on dynamic characteristics of a two axial groove bearing. A detailed study on the contribution of mechanical and thermal deformation components of the compliant lining to the non-dimensional bearing stiffness and damping is carried out. Thermal deformation is found to increase horizontal stiffness Kyy and cross-coupled stiffness Kxy and slightly reduce journal critical mass. Mechanical deformation of the compliant lining is found to decrease damping, reduce vertical and cross-coupled Kxy stiffness. Radial clearance is found to increase stiffness, except its horizontal component, and decrease horizontal damping. Compliant lining is found to improve bearing stability.