Optimum design of inherently compensated aerostatic thrust bearings

This paper describes an optimisation method that can facilitate the design of aerostatic thrust bearings in various applications. In this contribution, the optimisation problem is formulated so as to maximise the static stiffness of bearings subject to load carrying capacity and damping requirements. Four design parameters, namely, feeding hole radius, air supply pressure, air film thickness and bearing conicity, are taken into account in the optimisation process. This paper presents information directly applicable to the design of thrust bearings with optimal characteristics. Two design optimisation examples are demonstrated by considering different boundary conditions on the bearing. In conclusion, this paper proposes some design guidelines to obtain optimum design of inherently compensated aerostatic thrust bearings.