Calculation of Tilting Pad Bearing Forces

In the field of rotor dynamics, developing dynamic models is essential for analyzing the vibrations
of different types of machines under various operating conditions. These models enable early fault
detection and facilitate predictive maintenance, thus extending the system’s lifespan and reducing
unplanned downtime. However, modeling vertical rotors presents additional challenges. Unlike hori-
zontal rotors, the shaft position in vertical rotors constantly varies, complicating numerical simulations.
Furthermore, in the case of tilting-pad bearings, which are most commonly used in this configuration,
no model is available that accurately estimates the hydrodynamic forces, which significantly influence
rotor motion.
In this study, a new methodology was developed to determine the dynamic behavior of a vertical
rotor. To achieve this, a new model was proposed to describe the dynamic behavior of tilting-pad bea-
rings. Expressions were formulated to calculate the hydrodynamic force in these bearings based on
the geometry and fluid behavior. A formula was developed to determine the oil film thickness, allowing
for a more accurate solution of the Reynolds equation.