Analysis of Coupled Journal and Thrust Hydrodynamic Bearing Using a Finite-Volume Method

Abstract A numerical method is developed to analyze the performance of coupled journal and thrust hydrodynamic bearings. The non-dimensional generalized Reynolds equation is discretized on a non-orthogonal grid which is mapped into a rectangular box. The journal and the thrust regions are mapped separately and connected through internal flux boundary condition. The discretized pressure field is solved iteratively using the ADI method which has a fast convergent rate. The stiffness and damping coefficients are obtained by perturbing the equilibrium solution of the Reynolds equation and solving the perturbation equations. The accuracy of the present calculation is confirmed by comparing with previously existing data. Analyses are performed for self-contained coupled hydrodynamic bearings which can be used to support the spindle motor of a magnetic hard disk drive.