SON

SON - test rig for testing of static characteristics of hydrodynamic thrust bearings

Test rig SON can be used for testing of static characteristics of hydrodynamic thrust bearings of various types. Tests can be aimed at development of new bearing concepts, testing prototypes, bearings with different material selection and for more fundamental research in properties of the fluid film in the thrust bearing. It offers possibilities of evaluating deformations of bearing elements, measuring friction torque in the bearing and evaluating minimum film thickness in the bearing.

Schematic view of test head (click sketch to enlarge):

Schematic view whole test rig (click sketch to enlarge):



Photo of test rig:

Specifications:

  • Bearing outer diameter up to 200 mm
  • Bearing axial load: up to 90 kN
  • Rotational speed of the motor: 20 - 5000 rpm
  • Lubricating oil flow (Q in f + Q in b) adjustable, up to 45 l/min

Measured or calculated quantities:

  • Bearing temperatures
  • Minimum oil film thickness
  • Deformations of bearing elements
  • Friction torque
  • Load, speed, oil temperature

Examples of the research:

  • testing of tilting-pad ceramic bearings lubricated with water during starting under load. Research was done for a British bearing manufacturer
  • testing of tilting-pad bearings with novel pivot design. Research was done for a British bearing manufacturer
  • development of a prototype bearing with an elastic thrust plate. Research was done for supercharger application in one of the Polish chemical factories
  • research into the influence of design variables on properties of the bearing with an elastic thrust plate. Financed by Polish Committee for Scientific Research
  • Research of the bearings with babbitted and polymer lined pads. Financed by Polish Committee for Scientific Research
  • Research of the DLC coated bearings under high loads and low speeds

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