Investigations into a 6000 tons thrust bearing with Teflon or Babbitt layer for the Three Gorges units

The development by testing of a thrust bearing of a unit already in operation is difficult and costly. In addition, the test results are given before design. In order to optimise design and parameters of thrust bearings of Three Gorges generators, a better way of investigating the thrust bearings is to carry out simulation experiments on a test stand. The thrust bearing with Babbitt or Teflon layered pads for Three Gorges units were tested on the Harbin Electric Machinery Co. Ltd. (HEC) test stand by HEC with ALSTOM POWER (Switzerland) co-operation. This experiment, including temperature distribution, thickness and pressure distribution of oil film, and loss measurement, ensures the reliable operation according to the requirements of the Three Gorges power station.