Prediction of the Operating Temperature of Thrust Bearings

An analytical method is described for predicting the operating temperature of thrust bearings of the size and speed typically found in large vertical machinery. The method involves evaluating the various mechanisms by which heat is transferred from the bearing and balancing this heat loss against the calculated heat generated by viscous shearing. This heat balance analysis is combined with a comprehensive bearing computer program which evaluates bearing pressure distributions, bearing pad deflection, lubricant flow and lubricant temperature rise within the bearing film. Predicted bearing operating temperatures show excellent agreement with laboratory tests and with field measurements over a wide range of bearing sizes and operating conditions.