Abstract: The dynamic characteristics of the line-supported tilting pad thrust bearing are studied by taking thermal effects into account. The generalized Reynolds equation, the complete 3D energy equation, the heat conduction equation of the pad, and the temperature viscosity relation are established to derive the stiffness and damping coefficient of the oil film on the tilting pad. It is shown that the thermal effects have significant influence on the dynamic characteristics of tilting thrust pads. Compared to the line-supported tilting pad without including the thermal effect, stiffness and damping coefficient of the oil film including the thermal effect increases so that it becomes closer to the actual operating conditions. With the increase of load and inlet temperature and the decrease of angular velocity, stiffness and the damping coefficient of the oil film will increase.

Key words: 3D thermal, dynamic characteristics, thrust bearing, tilting pad