Performance of Large-Waterwheel-Generator Pivoted-Pad Thrust Bearing Determined by Tests under Normal Operating Conditions

Thrust block performance improvements using polymer lined tilting pads

“…At large thrust pad sizes, the effect of thermal and mechanical deformations are great (Ettles, 1980). Such deformations are significant for bearings designed to work with minimum film thicknesses of the order of 0.025 to 0.050 mm, and consequently many mechanisms of varying sophistication were developed to control the deflection of large thrust pads (Baudry, et al, 1959).…”