ginsoakedboy
Mechanical
- Oct 14, 2004
- 157
The results of sectional-3D FEA on a Thrust Runner show that the Runner "bows" under the thrust load. The axial displacement of the periphery of the Runner is ~60 µm. The thickness of fluid-film between the Thrust Runner and Tilting Pads is estimated to be ~10 µm.
Radial interference of 5 mils/inch diameter is modeled between the Shaft and the Runner. The applied loads are: (i) Interference, (ii) Centrifugal, and (iii) Axial Thrust (mapped from 1 Tilting Pad on to the Runner Surface).
I am concerned that the excessive deformation on the periphery of the Runner will cause the lubricant film to be unsustainable, and drastically reduce the load-carrying capacity.
My question is, how much displacement is allowable on the Runner?