Pressurized bearing housing

In an offshore application the process gas flowing into a 3,600 kW turboexpander was compatible with the magnetic bearing material and a suitable seal gas source was available. This made it possible to use a pressurized bearing housing. 

Figure 6-9. Pressurized bearing housing temperature control.

Pressure accessories are defined to have an operational function having pressure-bearing housings, therefore all valves and fluid-pressurized actuators are pressure accessories. 

Both the dry sump and wet sump method of oil misting have a slight positive pressure in the bearing housing. This prevents contaminants and even humid air from entering the bearing ehamber. 

During the shop test of pumps with pressure lubricated bearings, the oil flow rate to each bearing housing shall be measured and recorded. 

Bearing housings for oiMubricated non-pressure-fed bearings shall be provided with threaded and plugged... 

Bearing housings for pressure-lubricated hydrodynamic bearings shall be arranged to minimise foaming. The drain system shall be adequate to maintain the oil and foam level below shaft end seals. 

If pure oil mist lubrication is specified, oil rings orflingers and constant-level oilers shall not be provided, and a mark indicating the oil level is not required. If purge oil mist lubrication is specified, these items shall be provided and the oiler shall be piped so that it is maintained at the internal pressure of the bearing hous ing. 

The static eccentricity and attitude of the damper ring/bearing housing are monitored by mechanical clock gauges. Lubricant pressure is measured at the inlet to the housing and lubricant temperature is measured as it discharges from the annulus. 

---