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Product Description
Thrust pad is a core load-bearing component of the white metal bearing system, mainly used to bear and transfer the axial load generated by rotating equipment during operation, ensuring the stable axial positioning of the rotor. The thrust pad usually cooperates with the thrust pad base ring to form a stable hydrodynamic or hydrostatic oil film, thereby achieving axial support with low friction and low wear. It is one of the key components ensuring the safe and stable operation of the equipment.
In heavy-duty rotating equipment such as steam turbines and hydroturbines, the axial load is characterized by large load capacity, long duration, and variable operating conditions. The white metal thrust pad, relying on its excellent embeddability, compliance, and anti-scuffing performance, can form and maintain a stable oil film under high load and high rotational speed. It can also compensate for minor shaft misalignment, thereby reducing contact stress and the risk of wear. Therefore, the material selection and machining precision of the thrust pad are key factors in ensuring reliable operation and prolonging the overall service life of the thrust bearing system.
The thrust pads produced by our company are widely used in various white metal thrust bearing systems, covering different shaft dimensions, axial load levels, and lubrication methods. The products support customized design and manufacturing according to customer drawings or technical parameters. Moreover, based on the equipment type, operating conditions, and service environment, the structural configuration, white metal material, and critical dimensions of the thrust pad can be specifically optimized to ensure stable and reliable axial load-bearing performance under long-term continuous operation conditions.
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Structural Form and Characteristics
Multiple fan-shaped pads:
This type of structure is commonly applied in tilting pad thrust bearings. Each pad can slightly pivot during operation, helping to build up a stable oil film and balance the load automatically.
Steel backing with Babbitt working layer:
The steel backing provides the necessary mechanical strength to withstand axial load, while the Babbitt layer serves as the working surface. It offers good embeddability, adaptability to minor deformation, and strong resistance to seizure.
Back support design:
Depending on the bearing arrangement, the back of the pad may adopt a flat-back design, spherical pivot support, or elastic support structure, so that the pad can better adapt to load changes.
Heat dissipation and lubrication performance:
Oil grooves on the pad surface, together with the overall structural layout, help guide lubricating oil evenly across the working surface and improve heat removal during operation.
Customization and Technical Services
We can manufacture thrust pads according to customer drawings or specific technical data. Production will be arranged strictly in line with the provided dimensions and requirements.
Based on the actual bearing structure and operating conditions, we are also able to assist with structural improvements and technical optimization when needed.
Our team supports technical discussion during the project stage and can provide installation guidance and after-sales service.
You are welcome to share your drawings, load data, speed, lubrication method, and other operating parameters. We will evaluate the conditions and propose a suitable thrust pad solution accordingly.
Machining Process
First, the thrust pad is properly positioned and clamped on the machine table. The reference surface is aligned to ensure correct location and stable fixation during machining.
Next, the working surface is milled to remove the required allowance step by step. The operation focuses on achieving the specified flatness, dimensional tolerance, and surface finish in accordance with the drawing. Cutting parameters are carefully controlled to avoid overheating or damaging the Babbitt layer.
After machining, the pad is inspected for dimensional accuracy and surface condition. Once all technical requirements are verified, it is released for the next production stage.
Milling
Milling
Product Inspection
Raw materials are checked before production, including verification of the Babbitt alloy chemical composition to ensure it meets the specified standards.
The bonding condition between the Babbitt layer and the steel backing is inspected to confirm proper metallurgical adhesion and overall reliability.
All key dimensions and geometric tolerances are measured in accordance with drawing requirements.
The working surface and overall appearance are also examined to ensure there are no defects that may affect performance.
If required, non-destructive testing or other special inspection items can be arranged based on customer specifications.
Packaging & Shipping
To ensure that the product is protected from impact, corrosion, or deformation during long-distance transportation and multiple handling operations, a multi-layer export packaging solution is adopted, as detailed below:
1. Inner Protective Layer
All critical surfaces of the product (such as machined surfaces, mating surfaces, end faces, etc.) are coated with anti-rust oil or suitable protective agents and wrapped with VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) paper or other protective materials. This effectively isolates air and moisture, preventing corrosion or damage during transportation and storage.
2. Cushioning and Fixation Layer
Cushioning materials (such as pearl cotton, foam, or rubber pads) are applied around the product to provide full protection. Customized supports or positioning blocks are also used inside the packaging case to prevent rolling or displacement of the product, ensuring stability during transport.
3. Outer Reinforced Packaging
The outer layer uses a reinforced export wooden case or other sturdy packaging with strong structural integrity and high load-bearing capacity, suitable for sea, land, or air transport. Handling marks such as center of gravity, lifting points, moisture protection, and anti-tilt symbols can be applied according to customer requirements, facilitating on-site handling and identification.
4. Customized Packaging Options
Packaging solutions can be customized according to customer requirements, including protection grade, cushioning method, fixing structure, and outer case design, to meet different transportation conditions, destination ports, and project site requirements.
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