Optimized design and performance improvement of steam turbine bearings

In the field of modern industry, steam turbines, as efficient and high-power power conversion devices, are widely used in power generation, ship propulsion, industrial driving and other aspects. One of its core components, the bearing, not only carries the huge weight of the rotor, but also needs to remain stable during high-speed rotation to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the entire system. Therefore, the design of steam turbine bearings is very important, and a series of optimized structural forms are usually adopted, such as tilting pad bearings, elliptical pad bearings, etc., aiming to improve the bearing capacity and stability to adapt to complex and changeable working conditions. condition.

1. Optimize the bearing structure
1. Tilt pad bearing
Tilting pad bearings are an advanced bearing design that feature the pads being able to slightly swing around a fixed fulcrum, creating an adaptive contact surface. This design allows the pads to automatically adjust their posture according to the force when the bearing is loaded, achieving a more uniform stress distribution. Compared with traditional fixed pad bearings, tiltable pad bearings can more effectively absorb and disperse the centrifugal force generated by high-speed rotation, significantly reduce bearing wear and extend service life. At the same time, its good adaptability also helps reduce vibration caused by rotor imbalance and improve system stability.

2. Elliptical pad bearing
Elliptical pad bearings change the shape design of the pads to make them elliptical instead of the traditional round shape to adapt to the dynamic changes of the rotor during high-speed rotation. This design not only increases the contact area of ​​the bearing and improves the load-bearing capacity, but also effectively suppresses the shaking of the journal in the radial direction and reduces vibration and noise. Elliptical pad bearings are particularly suitable for large, heavy-duty steam turbines, which can significantly improve the reliability and operating efficiency of the equipment.

2. Measures for further optimization
In addition to adopting advanced bearing structures, the performance of steam turbine bearings can also be further improved through the following measures:

1. Set the bearing clearance reasonably
The size of the bearing clearance directly affects the lubrication effect and stability of the bearing. If the gap is too large, the oil film may be unstable and increase vibration and wear; if the gap is too small, the oil film may rupture due to frictional heat, causing dry friction. Therefore, accurately calculating and reasonably setting the bearing clearance according to specific working conditions is the key to ensuring the good operation of the bearing.

2. Optimize the oil chamber structure
The design of the oil chamber structure is crucial for bearing lubrication and cooling. By optimizing the shape, size and distribution of the oil chamber, the flow efficiency and pressure distribution of lubricating oil can be improved to ensure that the bearing surface is fully lubricated and cooled. In addition, the use of advanced oil film damping technology can effectively absorb and suppress vibration, further improving the stability and durability of the bearing.

3. Innovation in materials and surface treatment technology
The selection of high-strength, wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant materials, as well as the application of advanced surface treatment technologies (such as carburizing, nitriding, spraying, etc.), can significantly improve the hardness and fatigue resistance of the bearing, reduce wear and corrosion, and extend the service life. life.