Axial impulse performance of self-acting semi-spherical air bearings

In this study we investigate the impulse performance of self-acting semi-sp herical air bearings. Parameters affecting the performance of the air beari ng are the clearance between the rotor and stator and stator groove depth. Rotation speed is changed from 13 000 rpm to 23 000 rpm. Rotor impulse disp lacement, impulse stiffness and allowable impulse are selected as axial imp ulse performance factors. Experimental results show that rotor impulse disp lacement and impulse stiffness decrease when the speed as well as the groov e depth increase and the clearance decreases. Allowable impulse does not ch ange significantly with changes in the clearance, and has a maximum value a t a certain groove depth.