Waukesha Bearings Horizontal Type Self Equalizing Tilting Pad Thrust Bearings with Forced Lubrication - Manual (Page 4)

IMPORTANT
Cleanliness and burr-free surfaces are vital to the proper performance
of the bearing. Remove any burrs or raised edges on the pad faces
with a scraper. Remove any light burrs or fine rust on the collar with
a fine oil stone. Deep rust or bruising will require refinishing.
On reassembly, oil all parts to protect against corrosion. Check that the leveling links are properly
installed. The radiused central surface of the lower link is placed down so it is in contact with the
base ring. The ground flat surface of the upper links faces up, with the radiused wing surfaces of all
links in contact. The flat on the upper links is then in position to contact the support disc of the pad,
when assembled. When all links are assembled, check to see that all are free to operate.
In a retained pad construction, the thrust pads may then be assembled and secured by the retaining
screws or clips.
For split bearings the assembled retainer halves are rotated into position in the bearing housing,
inserting thrust pad concurrently. When joining the two retainer halves, insure that the leveling links
at the joints interlock properly. Oil all mating surfaces during the assembly procedure. Align the
anti-rotation key (or pin) so the housing can be then assembled.
After assembly of the housing check the axial end clearance in the bearing by jacking the shaft fore
and aft and measuring its movement. To adjust the end clearance and/or to obtain the desired axial
position of the rotor, adjust or machine the shim packs or plates as necessary. (Note: These filler
pieces may be an integral part of the bearing package or may be supplied by the manufacturer of the
machine.)
IV. OPERATION
These bearings are designed for forced lubrication with outside cooling of the oil. Oil should be
supplied prior to rotation of the rotor and at all times during rotation. The flow must be controlled to
the rate specified and this is normally accomplished with a suitable orifice in the supply line.
Maintenance of a clean oil supply is critical to the satisfactory operation of the bearing. A suitable
filter system is generally essential. A high quality turbine type oil with rust and corrosion inhibitors is
recommended for most applications.
As the bearing surfaces are separated completely by an oil film during operation there is virtually no
wear and thus no periodic adjustments or maintenance procedures are specified. The only attention
normally required is to maintain the proper flow of clean oil at the proper temperature.
The use of thermocouples or RTDs embedded into the thrust pads is often made to provide a monitor
on machine and bearing performance. Such sensors, if used, provide a responsive and accurate check
on bearing operation. Normal operating temperatures are established and then alarm and/or shutdown
signals may be set.