Fluid film bearings have been extensively used in the industry because of their unbeatable durability and extremely low friction coefficient, despite a very low coefficient of friction dissipation of energy being noticeable, especially in large bearings. Lubricating systems of large tilting pad thrust bearings utilized in large, vertical shaft hydrogenerators are presented in this paper. A large amount of heat is generated due...

In numerous machines, axial load is carried by tilting pad thrust bearings known since the beginning of 20th century. These bearings are commonly bath lubricated, which is simple, does not require any additional pumps, and, due to this, such systems are highly reliable. In a contemporary technology, however, minimization of friction losses became an important goal of machinery improvement. Calculations based on elementary rules...

In many cases in rotating machinery, axial load is carried by tilting pad thrust bearings which have been developed since the beginning of 20th century. For high reliability and simplicity, most commonly the bearings are bath lubricated. In the times of sustainable development, however, minimization of friction losses becomes an important criterion for machinery assessment, and a strategic goal of their development. Performed calculations,...

Fluid film bearings have been extensively used in the industry because of their unbeatable durability and extremely low friction coefficient. Large bearings supporting shafts of huge and important rotating machines constitute a special group of fluid film bearings since the reliability of crucial systems, like for example electro-energetic system, rely on their trouble-free operation. Large thrust bearings, apart from enormous...

The elimination of mineral oil-based lubricants from machines has multiple beneficial effects on the natural environment. Firstly – these lubricants are a direct threat to the environment in the event of leaks; secondly – their elimination reduces the demand for crude oil from which they are obtained. In addition, in many cases, e.g. when replacing traditional lubricants with water, friction losses in the bearings can also be reduced...