The impact of installation deviation on the lubricating characteristics of a 1000 MW giant hydropower unit’s tilting-pad journal bearing

Abstract With the trend towards larger and higher capacity units, tilting-pad journal bearings are being increasingly used in hydropower units. Through thermo-hydrodynamic (THD) analysis, it is possible to establish pressure differential equations that consider the change in oil viscosity with temperature, which is essential to ensure safe operation of the bearing. Further research on the flowing characteristics of tilting-pad journal bearings, especially about installation deviations, is essential for giant hydropower unit. This study establishes a three-dimensional model of a 1000 MW hydropower unit’s turbine journal bearing to investigate temperature, pressure distribution, and load under various installation deviation scenarios. The findings aim to optimize the design and engineering practices of tilting-pad bearings in rotating machinery, meeting the evolving needs of the power industry.