Bemessungs- und Gestaltungsregeln für Gleitlager: Optimierungsfragen

This second paper on dimensioning and designing of sleeve bearings deals with optimisation techniques. A successful optimisation is difficult, especially when using computer-aided dimensioning and designing methods, because interactions between a lot of variables may not be seen clearly. The first question is, whether hydrodynamic or hydrostatic bearings should be used. Then the form of the lubricating film gap in height, width and length will be discussed. The next theme is the choice of a most suitable set of dimensional groups in order to solve an optimisation problem. Another important question is, how many pads or segments should be used in thrust bearings or in segmented radial bearings, and how large the gaps between these pads should be in order to get the maximum of load capacity. Either initially converged gaps or also initially parallel gaps induce a (very small) hydrodynamic pressure. Finally the optimisation of lubricant conduction under fully floaded and starved conditions will be discussed. In case of a totally flooded bearing it is necessary to get very much lubricant through the gap in order to transport heat out off the bearing. If there is a bearing with starved lubrication the aim is to lead back nearly all lubricant, which escapes from the bearing, in order to prevent too much lubricant loss.