Abstract: A hydrodynamic fluid film bearing having a series of axially aligned foil bearing modules which act in concert to extend the load carrying capability of the bearing assembly while providing whirl free operation.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic fluid film thrust bearing including a stationary thrust plate 15, a rotating thrust runner 20 spaced therefrom, and at least one foil 50 disposed therebetween, is provided with first and second sets 25 and 45 of overlying resilient backing members in axial alignment with the foil. One of the backing members 25, having a lower relative spring constant, provides the bearing with compliance for adequate load capacity and damping characteristics. The other backing member 45, having a higher relative spring constant, establishes and maintains an optimum fluid film geometry under all loading, speed and other operating conditions.

Abstract: A perforated foil bearing surface having dry lubricant reservoirs dispersed throughout and a method of producing such perforated foil bearing surfaces.

Abstract: A tubular foil bearing carrier, upon which a plurality of individual compliant foils are mounted, is disposed between two relatively rotatable journal bearing elements. The bearing carrier includes at least one circumferential row of alternating slots and bars with individual hairpin foils, having an integral underfoil and overfoil, mounted thereon.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic fluid film journal bearing comprises a stationary retaining member 15, a rotatable journal 20 disposed therewithin and an insert comprising a smooth cylindrical foil element 25 and a corrugated, cylindrical, resilient backing member 45 disposed radially outwardly from the foil. The foil element and the resilient backing member are fixed at ends thereof to the retaining member such that the backing member extends from the fixed end, in an opposite circumferential direction from that of the extension of the foil element from the fixed end thereof. The journal is supported by a fluid film layer maintained by relative rotary motion between the journal and the foil element, the backing accommodating deflections of the foil and excursions of the journal due to fluid pressure and loading of the bearing.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic fluid film bearing including a stationary retaining member 15, a rotating member 20 and a foil element 25 therebetween includes a resilient backing member 45 adjacent the foil element. The resilient backing member has a bilinear spring constant associated therewith. At low bearing loading, the spring constant of the backing member is lower than at high loading. By this construction the bearing achieves enhanced damping with minimum power loss at all speeds of operation as well as improved load capacity, and resistance to rotating member excursions and instabilities due to shaft imbalances and other disturbances.