Where Are Turbine Radial Thrust Bearings Used?
These bearings are essential in power generation systems where the turbine shaft needs to be held in perfect alignment while managing massive axial and radial forces.
| Industry |
Applications |
| Thermal Power Plants |
Steam turbines, turbo-generators |
| Hydropower Stations |
Kaplan and Francis turbines |
| Gas Turbine Systems |
Combined-cycle plants, gas boosters |
| Petrochemical Plants |
Turbomachinery, axial compressors |
| Renewable Energy |
Wind turbines with hybrid bearing systems |
What Is a Turbine Radial Thrust Bearing?
A turbine radial thrust bearing is a dual-function bearing assembly that supports both radial loads (perpendicular to the shaft) and axial loads (along the shaft’s length). It ensures the turbine rotor remains centered and absorbs axial displacement caused by steam or gas pressure variations.
The assembly typically includes:
- Radial Journal Pads or Sleeves – For supporting the rotating shaft
- Thrust Pads – To handle axial movement in one or both directions
- Tilting Pad Design – To optimize hydrodynamic film thickness and load distribution
- Lubrication Grooves / Oil Supply System – Critical for film formation and cooling
- Bearing Housing – Precision-machined body for mounting and alignment
These bearings prevent shaft misalignment, thermal distortion, and excessive wear under high-speed, high-temperature operating conditions.
High-Grade Materials for Maximum Performance
Turbine bearings must operate under continuous thermal and mechanical stress. Hence, materials are carefully chosen to resist deformation, fatigue, and thermal breakdown.
| Component |
Material Used |
Key Characteristics |
| Radial Pads / Journal |
White Metal (Babbitt) or Tin Bronze |
Conformability, wear resistance, good embedment |
| Thrust Pads |
Steel Backing with White Metal Overlay |
High shock absorption and load-carrying capacity |
| Bearing Housing |
Cast Steel, SG Iron |
Precision alignment, vibration damping |
| Coatings / Inlays |
PTFE or Graphite (optional) |
Dry lubrication, low-friction backup |
Lead-free and RoHS-compliant white metals are available for regulated environments.
Our Product Range Includes:
- Tilting Pad Radial Thrust Bearings (customized for speed and load)
- Single & Double-Acting Thrust Bearings
- Segmental Pad Radial Bearings
- Self-equalizing Thrust Pad Bearings
- High-Temperature Resistant Assemblies
- Integrated Oil Cooling Channels / Lubrication Ports
Reverse Engineering & Custom Manufacturing
In legacy turbines or imported systems, replacing worn or undocumented bearings can be a challenge. These turbine bearings can be reverse-engineered to exact dimensions, metallurgy, and fitment needs.
Capabilities include:
- Shaft diameters from 100 mm to 1200 mm+
- Precision profiling of thrust pads for dynamic load alignment
- Oil groove design and tilt-pad calibration
- Replication of OEM designs for Siemens, GE, BHEL, and more
- Upgraded thermal management options for extended bearing life
Key Features & Benefits
- Dual Load Management: Handles both axial and radial stresses with precision
- Hydrodynamic Film Stability: Maintains lubrication under high RPM
- Minimized Vibration & Thermal Drift: Improves rotor alignment and machine health
- Long Service Life: Wear-resistant pads and steady cooling prolong uptime
- Custom Fitment: Engineered to match operating environment and speed/load profile
Why Choose Turbine Bearings That Perform?
Trained to operate in extreme-duty environments, turbine radial thrust bearings are not just parts—they are critical balancing systems. When designed with precision and the right materials, they significantly reduce downtime, heat buildup, and mechanical wear.
Looking to replace or upgrade turbine radial thrust bearings?
Choose precision-engineered, performance-tested bearing assemblies that keep your turbines rotating smoothly—day in and day out.
