Abstract: A bearing system includes a lubricant circulation apparatus to provide a continuous supply of lubricant fluid to a bearing device. The bearing device may be a hydrodynamic sleeve bearing having a bearing housing defining a sump for maintaining lubricant fluid therein. An oil ring may be situated about the mechanical shaft supported by the bearing device to deposit oil on top of the shaft during rotation. In addition, a bearing inlet is defined at a location radially above the shaft, with a bearing outlet being defined at a location radially below. The bearing outlet is in fluid communication with a reservoir of the lubricant circulation apparatus. A pump communicates with the reservoir to draw lubricant fluid therefrom and deliver it to the bearing inlet. Preferably, the pump draws lubricant fluid from the reservoir at a rate greater than can be passed through the bearing housing.