An Experimental Investigation Into the Rubber-Stabilization of an Externally-Pressurized Air-Lubricated Thrust Bearing

Stability maps are presented for a circular thrust bearing which has a central feed hole and pocket and is flexibly supported on various rubber O-rings. Results obtained show that a substantial improvement in stability can be achieved compared with the normal fixed-pad arrangement. An earlier stability theory has been programmed with measured O-ring support data but qualitative agreement with experiment is attained only after modification of theory.