An efficient quasi-3D rotordynamic and fluid dynamic model of Tilting Pad Journal Bearing

Over the last few decades the use of Tilting Pad Journal Bearings (TPJBs) has spread due to their better performances in the most demanding operating conditions (i.e. in the presence of high loads and speeds). This research paper describes the development and experimental validation of a new quasi-3D TPJB model, able to analyze both the fluid dynamics (also including the supply plant) and rotor dynamics of the system and their complex interactions. The developed model is characterized by a high numerical efficiency, thus allowing for complex simulation tasks, and strongly modular, with the possibility to easily represent different layouts of TPJBs. The proposed model has been developed and experimentally validated in collaboration with Nuovo Pignone General Electric S.p.a. considering a complete plant test rig which includes rotor, bearings and lubrication circuit. Finally, an innovative heuristic law is proposed in order to predict the TPJB fluid dynamical characteristics taking into account the coupled effects neglected by classical simplified models.