What is thrust bearing in main engine?

What is thrust bearing in main engine?

The thrust bearing is always fitted at the aft end of the main engine crankshaft. The main thrust bearing controls the correct location of the crank pins relative to the center of the cylinders. In propulsion machinery, the thrust bearing most commonly used is tilting-pad type.

How does thrust bearing work?

Thrust bearings absorb axial loads from rotating shafts into the stationary housings or mounts in which they are turning. Axial loads are those transmitted linearly along the shaft. Good examples of axial loads are the forward thrust on boats or prop-driven airplanes as a result of their propeller’s rapid rotation.

What is the main function of bearing?

The bearings serve to reduce friction and allow for smoother rotation. This cuts down on the amount of energy consumption. This is the single most important function of bearings.

Which main bearing is the thrust bearing?

Crankshaft thrust bearings provide a fore/aft gap-control for axial movement (or endplay) of the crankshaft. These thrust bearings are located at a specific main bearing location, generally at the center main or rear main, depending on engine design.

What is the function of thrust block?

Back to the present: the thrust block is situated just aft of the main engine and its purpose is to transmit the torque produced by the rotating propeller and shaft down into the ship’s structure.

What causes thrust bearing failure?

Aside from obvious causes such as dirt contamination and misassembly, there are only three things that generally cause thrust bearing failures. Poor crankshaft surface finish; Misalignment of the thrust bearing and crankshaft; Overloading of the thrust bearing.

What are the two main categories of bearings?

There are two main types:

• Ball bearing, in which the rolling elements are spherical balls;
• Roller bearing, in which the rolling elements are cylindrical, taper or spherical rollers;

What are the main parts of a bearing?

Bearings typically consist of the following components:

• Two rings, inner and outer, with raceways.
• Rolling elements – rollers or balls.
• A cage which keeps the rolling elements spearted and helps guide motion.