Modeling and static characteristics study of the double-layer bump gas foil bearing

Abstract This paper presents a frictional structural model for the double-layer bump gas foil bearing (DGFB) based on contact mechanics. Using this model, the load carrying mechanism and the static characteristics of the DGFBs are analyzed. The investigations on the foil layouts and structural parameters yield valuable observations. Loading-unloading simulations show that the adjustment of the bump foil layout can enhance the structural stiffness of the DGFB whilst still maintaining relatively good damping. The static analyses indicate that an excessively stiffer lower bump foil hinders the improvement in the maximum load capacity of DGFBs.