The purpose of a journal bearing is to allow for a low friction, low heat contact and act as a support for a shaft or axle. One type of journal bearing, known as a tilting pad journal bearing, is designed to prevent the problems associated with traditional bearings. Tilting pad journal bearings are used extensively in multiple rotating equipment applications across many industries.
A typical tilting pad journal bearing consists of two major parts, a housings and bearing pads. The housing serves to enclose and support the bearing pads, which contain the lubricant which prevents the shaft or axle from contacting the housing directly. The bearing pads are mounted in the housing and are able to move radially and axially, due to their construction, which allows them to absorb small shaft misalignments, vibrations and shaft run-out.
The tilting pad journal bearing is capable of providing superior performance compared to traditional journal bearings, due to its ability to effectively lubricate and reduce friction between the housing and bearing pads. The pads’ ability to move radially and axially is also beneficial, as it allows for a higher degree of flexibility and rotation, which can help to reduce the heat generated due to bearing friction.
The oil film that forms when lubricant is introduced to a tilting pad journal bearing, serves to provide a cushion of air between the two surfaces. This air cushion acts as a barrier, reducing the coefficient of friction between the two surfaces. This reduction in friction also helps to reduce the overall heat generated from the bearing, allowing it to work more efficiently and for longer periods of time.
The tilting pad journal bearing is designed to provide an incredibly robust solution for extreme load applications. They are not only able to tolerate large amounts of external loading, but their ability to move axially and radially also allows them to handle misalignment, minor shaft imperfections, and even small shaft run-out.
The flexibility of a tilting pad journal bearing allows it to be installed in a variety of applications, such as large internal combustion engines and turbines, as well as pumps and compressors. It is also widely used in rotating driveshafts, rotary heat exchangers, furniture and household items, and marine propellers.
The advantages offered by the tilting pad journal bearing are immense and it is an incredibly versatile solution for many industrial and consumer applications. Its impressive reliability, robust construction, and ability to absorb shocks and misalignment, make it ideal for a variety of industries and applications.
