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.