Journal (Radial) Bearings

Waukesha Bearings’ journal bearing range is the most extensive in the industry…with designs ranging from less than one inch (25 mm) to over 20 inches (500 mm) in diameter, available in a wide variety of fixed profile (sleeve) and tilting pad configurations. Combination thrust/journal bearing designs are also available for applications with limited axial space. From small, high speed turbochargers to the world’s largest gas turbine…Waukesha delivers.

Waukesha Bearings tilting pad radial bearings are designed to transfer radial loads from rotating shafts with minimum power loss and optimum dynamic characteristics. Engineers at Waukesha Bearings work collaboratively with customers to understand the performance expectations and operating conditions…and provide a high-performing solution, manufactured to the highest quality standards in the industry.

Turbomachinery OEMs rely on Waukesha Bearings to deliver the right solution – the first time; every time.

Performance You Can Trust.

Engineers at Waukesha Bearings apply a variety of specialized design features to create a custom radial bearing solution that is optimized for superior performance.

  • Directed Lubrication – allows for increased load capacity, significantly reduced power losses, and reduced bearing surface temperatures and oil flow.
  • Pad Pivot Types – allow for increased capacity (loading) of the bearing with configuration designed to accommodate axial misalignment.
  • Alternative Pad Backing/Surface Materials – accommodates higher temperatures and dissipates heat more effectively…increasing load carrying capacity.
  • Pad Geometries – optimize dynamic performance of the machine – increase stability, create optimal stiffness and damping characteristics.
  • Hydrostatic Lift – configurations designed to accommodate high loads at machine start-up without sacrificing load carrying capacity.
  • Advanced Materials – allow for operation at significantly higher temperatures and thinner films than Babbitt.
  • Instrumentation Options – supply critical measurements that may indicate machine malfunction (include temperature sensors and proximity probes).

Waukesha Bearings’ radial bearings are customized for performance in a variety of applications including pumps, motors, compressors, turbines, generators and gearboxes.