Abstract
This paper numerically analyzes the dynamic characteristics of a spindle system supported by two identical journal bearingsconsidering bearing span that has dynamic load due to its mass unbalance. The Reynolds equation is transformed to solve a herringbone grooved journal bearing. The Reynolds equations are solved using FEM in order to calculate the pressure distribution in a fluid film. Reaction forces and friction torque are obtained by integrating the pressure and shear stress along the fluid film, respectively. Dynamic behaviors, such as whirl radius or angular displacement of a rotor, are determined by solving its nonlinear equations of motion with the Runge-Kutta method. This research shows that the same bearing spans of upper and lower journal bearings produce the minimum runout and friction torque of a spindle system.