Selected operational Problems of high-speed Rotors supported by Gas Foil Bearings

Abstract

In this paper, several issues related to the operation of gas foil bearings were discussed. The description of the foil bearings' operation was performed, with a special focus on the following issues: the friction processes taking place between the bearing elements together with the friction-generated heat, the appropriate selection of structural and coating materials, ensuring the bearing preload, and the vibration amplitudes in run-up and rundown of the rotor. The operational problems discussed are supplemented with practical examples. A very thorough understanding of the issues at stake makes it possible to specify more precisely the potential areas of application for foil bearings and take into account their operational properties in the contemplated implementations.