Condensation effects on the static performance of externally pressurized steam-lubricated thrust bearing

A novel method is put forward to investigate the load capacity of hydrostatic steam thrust bearings considering condensation phenomenon based on droplet nucleation theory. Through comparison with the experimental data of supersonic nozzles and classic hydrostatic gas bearings, the capability of this method to capture the steam phase change and calculate the load capacity is verified. The influences of four factors, namely, the inlet temperature, bearing clearance size, throttle orifice size, and surface roughness, upon the static performance of hydrostatic steam thrust bearings are studied. Results show that an annular condensation area will appear near the orifice, and the phenomenon of condensation and re-evaporation exists simultaneously. The condensation phenomenon will reduce the static load capacity of hydrostatic steam thrust bearings.