The evaluation of two analytical solutions for a compliant single-recess hydrostatic thrust bearing

Employing flexible elements within the geometry of bearings has shown enhanced performance. This paper aims to validate numerically two original analytical models corresponding to two design solutions of a structurally compliant hydrostatic thrust bearing. Assessing the bearing performance relies on a fluid-structure interaction modelling. The analytical models consider a series of simplifications, which ensure simplicity without significantly sacrificing accuracy. Their numerical validation confirms their reliability, with acceptable relative differences between analytical and numerical outcomes – 1-5% at low and medium loads, attaining roughly 13% at higher loads for either configuration; this allows further fast and elegant parametric analyses for design optimization.