A study of slot-entry hydrostatic/hybrid journal bearing using the finite element method

A theoretical study concerning the static and dynamic performance of hydros tatic/hybrid journal bearing compensated by slot restrictor has been presen ted using the finite element method (FEM). Results have been presented for a double row symmetric as well as asymmetric configurations for different v alues of slot width ratios (SWR) and external load ((W) over bar(0)). In or der to have a better understanding of their performance vis-a-vis other non -recessed bearing configurations, the performance characteristics of slot-e ntry journal bearings have been compared with that of similar hole-entry co mpensated journal bearings using capillary, orifice and constant flow valve restrictors for the same bearing geometric and operating parameters. The c omparative study indicates that asymmetric slot-entry journal bearings prov ide an improved stability threshold speed margin compared with asymmetric h ole entry journal bearings compensated by capillary, orifice and constant f low valve restrictors. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.