The Hydrosphere—A New Hydrodynamic Bearing

Abstract A fitted spherical bearing has been found to operate hydrodynamically when subjected to large values of thrust or radial-thrust load. An examination of the geometry of this bearing fails to reveal the usual wedge-shaped oil film in the direction of motion of the moving bearing surface. However, a wedge does exist normal to the direction of motion. When Reynolds differential equation is applied to the bearing it is not evident whether this normal wedge is capable of producing positive pressure. When the differential equation for pressure is written with respect to co-ordinates directed along and perpendicular to a “mean streamline,” it is apparent that a wedge normal to the direction of motion may produce positive pressure, provided there is flow in the normal direction. The results of several experimental tests are analyzed with respect to the qualitative theory presented, and the unique characteristics of this bearing are compared with those of other existing hydrodynamic bearings.