A Review of Tilting Pad Bearing Theory

A theoretical basis for static and dynamic operation of tilting pad journal bearings (TPJBs)has evolved over the last 50 years. Originally demonstrated by Lund using the pad assemblymethod and a classic Reynolds equation solution, the current state of the art includes fullthermoelastohydrodynamic solutions of the generalized Reynolds equation that include fluidconvective inertia effects, pad motions; and thermal and mechanical deformations of thepads and shaft. The development of TPJB theory is reviewed, emphasizing dynamic modeling. The paper begins with the early analyses of fixed geometry bearings and continues tomodern analyses that include pad motion and stiffness and damping effects. The developmentof thermohydrodynamic, thermoelastohydrodynamic, and bulk-flow analyses is reviewed. Thetheories of TPJB dynamics, including synchronous and nonsynchronous models, are reviewed.A discussion of temporal inertia effects in tilting pad bearing is considered. Futuretrends are discussed, and a path for experimental verification is proposed