High Temperature, High Speed Solid Lubricated Bearing Technology, Phase II - Test and Analysis.

This report describes a thorough analysis of the heat transfer characteristics of solid lubricated bearings. Two major aspects are investigated. These are heat generation within the bearing, and bearing cooling techniques. Bearing heat generation was studied, both analytically and experimentally. Computerized heat generation predictions were made and compared to actual performance data. Bearing component experiments were conducted in order to determine material and geometric effects and the significance of the various heat transfer modes. In addition, the importance of bearing operating conditions upon heat generation was also determined. A number of bearing cooling techniques were investigated. The influence of bearing geometric changes and cooling medium supply methods were determined. Much of the data is presented in nondimensional form. In general, it was found that heat generation was more a function of bearing operating conditions, especially speed and thrust load, than bearing internal geometry. Direct jet impingement cooling appears to be the most effective bearing cooling technique. (Author)
See also report dated Aug 74, AD-A003 635.