SUMMARY OF INVESTIGATIONS OF ENTRANCE EFFECTS IN CIRCULAR THRUST BEARINGS.

Abstract : The pressure depression in the vicinity of the supply hole of an externally pressurized circular thrust bearing having a single, axial supply hole was studied. Most of the experiments were conducted with a 2.750 in. diameter bearing with an 0.020 in. diameter supply hole. The supply hole has had both a square edge and a round edge. The test program was based on a dimensional analysis of the gas flow through the bearing. In accordance with this program, pressure profiles were obtained for clearances between 0.2 and 1.6 mil, and supply pressures between 20 and 215 psia. Flow rates were measured and compared with theoretical values. The load was determined by numerical integration under the pressure profile. Most of the data are presented in nondimensional form as indicated by the dimensional analysis. (Author)