A Study of Oil Circulation in the R4 Spin-Axis Bearing with Sintered Nylon Ball Retainer

摘要

A study was conducted on the circulation of lubricants in the R-4 spin-axis gyro bearing. The flow of lubricant was traced by incorporating 1% anthroquinone dye in the lubricant impregnated in an isolated portion of the sintered nylon retainer and periodically observing the color change of the undyed section as the lubricant was transported. Flow rates were determined for variations in speed, preload, bearing geometry, ambient pressure, lubricant viscosity and surface tension, retainer permeability, and the use of an antimigration barrier film. At 24,000 rpm and 7 pounds preload, an average circulation rate for Teresso V-78 was 45 micrograms/hour, which is equivalent to an average residence time of 2 hours on the metal raceways. The most important factor influencing circulation was the retainer permeability. (Author)