Low-Cost Fluid Film Bearings for Gas Turbine Engines

This paper deals with the use of low-cost hydrodynamic bearings in high-speed rotor systems. The advantages of these bearings, including reduced noise, damped vibration, and long life, make them attractive candidates for gas turbine engines.

Several well-established designs, such as axial groove, three-lobe, full floating, and tilting pad bearings, are discussed in detail. Also, several lesser known bearing designs are considered. The material and construction requirements are also looked into.