‘Inlet suction’, a load support mechanism in non-convergent, pocketed, hydrodynamic bearings

It is shown that a simple parallel pad bearing containing a closed pocket can support load if it operates in an ambient pressure that is appreciably in excess of the cavitation pressure of the lubricating fluid. This arises due to fluid flow driven by subambient pressures in the inlet region of the pad (‘inlet suction’). Maximum load capacity occurs when the pocket is located near the inlet to the bearing and under conditions such that cavitation is just provoked.