RoLaSIM | Rotordynamic & Gas Bearing Simulation Software – Precision Tools for Engineers
RoLaSIM Software Background

Rotordynamics & Air Bearing Simulation

When theory meets experience, precision wins.

 

RoLaSIM: Modular Rotordynamics and Aerodynamic Air Bearing Simulation for Turbomachinery

Accelerate design. Reduce risk. Deliver precision.

RoLaSIM combines specialized modules for the holistic analysis and optimization of rotordynamic systems and aerodynamic bearings. The central rotordynamics module precisely calculates critical speeds, stability behavior, and unbalance responses. It is complemented by four dedicated bearing modules for the advanced design of foil bearings (journal and thrust) as well as spiral groove bearings (radial and axial) — optimally tailored to your specific operating conditions.

The scientifically validated software was developed by informatics and domain experts based on a modular, multilingual software architecture with a powerful user interface, flexible frontend, and robust backend. Thanks to the integrated bearing-rotor coupling, fully gas-bearing systems can be simulated and optimized with unprecedented precision. Whether in turbines, medical devices, precision manufacturing, or other demanding applications — RoLaSIM delivers crucial insights for innovative and reliable designs.

RoLaSIM Software — Rotordynamic Analysis and Aerodynamic Bearing Development for Turbomachinery

Core Rotordynamics Module

Comprehensive analysis of critical speeds, stability thresholds, and 3D mode shapes for reliable system design.

Aerodynamic Foil Bearings

Precise simulation of multi-layer foil structures for journal and thrust bearings with optimal damping characteristics.

Spiral Groove Bearing Modules

Optimization of herringbone and spiral groove geometries for maximum load capacity and minimal friction.

3D Visualization

Interactive display of mode shapes, pressure profiles, and vibration behavior for in-depth system insights.

Developed for Demanding Turbomachinery Applications

Advanced specialized software for gas-bearing turbines, compressors, medical spindles, and high-speed drives.

Turbomachines Concept RoLaSIM — Modular Rotordynamics Analysis & Aerodynamic Bearing Development Rotordynamics Module Comprehensive analysis of complex rotor systems Radial Foil Bearings Optimized static and dynamic properties Thrust Foil Bearings Optimized static and dynamic properties Radial Spiral Groove Bearings Optimized static and dynamic properties Axial Spiral Groove Bearings Optimized static and dynamic properties Benefits • Optimized turbomachine design • Cost savings from reduced tests • Consideration of critical operating conditions • Tolerance studies for manufacturing inaccuracies • Increased component lifetime • Lower development costs • Validated models for highest reliability

Five Specialized Modules

3D Animation of Rotordynamics Analysis

Next Generation Rotordynamics Simulation

INTELLIGENT ROTORDYNAMICS CORE MODULE

First self-improving rotordynamics system

Paradigm Shift in Simulation: When Physics Meets Intelligence RoLaSIM redefines the boundaries of what's possible. While conventional software fails at complex air bearing phenomena, the revolutionary core module harnesses the perfect synergy of three groundbreaking technologies: microscopically precise 3D continuum mechanics, computationally efficient beam theory, and latest-generation adaptive AI algorithms. Imagine: Software that becomes smarter with every project. That learns from successes and avoids mistakes. That predicts critical resonances before they occur. That automatically recognizes when classical models reach their limits – and seamlessly switches to advanced simulation methods. RoLaSIM transforms weeks-long development cycles into productive days and uncertainty into precise predictions.

Core Module

Rotordynamics Core Module: Advanced Features Core Module

AI-powered hybrid technology with material modeling

AI-Powered Hybrid Simulation with Advanced Material Modeling

The world's first combination of 3D continuum elements and beam theory, enhanced by self-learning ML. Precise capture of all materials – from classical metals to composites to hybrid materials – solving the decades-old dilemma between accuracy and computational efficiency.

  • Adaptive Shear Correction through ML: AI automatically optimizes Timoshenko correction factors – reduces model uncertainties by up to 60% for short, thick elements
  • Intelligent Model Switching: Automatically detects when 3D effects become critical and seamlessly switches between beam and continuum formulation
  • Multi-Layer Composites: Advanced modeling of laminates and sandwich structures with correct layer interaction and interface effects
  • Self-Improving Convergence: ML system automatically solves 95% of all convergence problems through intelligent stiffness adjustment
  • Experience-Based Stability Prediction: Uses historical data for early detection of whirl and whip instabilities – provides preventive warnings for critical operating points
  • Anisotropic Materials & Composite Optimization: Full support for directional properties with special ML algorithms for multi-layer rotors
  • Continuous Precision Enhancement: Every simulation improves the global knowledge base – industry-validated accuracy for all common rotor materials
Comprehensive Rotordynamics Analysis

Comprehensive Analysis for Safe and Optimized Machines

From critical speed analysis to stability assessment: Our platform provides a complete set of analysis functions for precise, standards-compliant, and intelligent rotordynamic design.

  • Critical Speeds: Complete capture of all resonances with hazard classification and safety margins
  • Stability Assessment: Multi-dimensional analysis with adaptive method selection and nonlinear effects
  • Unbalance Behavior: Realistic vibration predictions according to international standards
  • Bearing Optimization: Evaluation of alternative bearing configurations for performance enhancement
  • Operating Range Recommendations: Automatic definition of safe operating windows based on all results
  • Sensitivity Analysis: Systematic investigation of design parameter influence
  • Visual Support: Stability maps, resonance diagrams, and benchmark comparisons
Practical Benefits

Measurable Benefits for Your Development Process

Accelerate your product development and reduce risks: RoLaSIM delivers reliable results faster than ever and supports informed design decisions.

  • Dramatic Time Savings: Complex analyses in minutes instead of days – more time for optimization and innovation
  • Reduced Prototype Costs: Virtual validation minimizes expensive physical tests and iterations
  • Increased Reliability: Early identification of potential problems avoids costly failures
  • Optimized Performance: Systematic design for maximum efficiency and service life
  • Simplified Documentation: Automatic report generation for certification and quality assurance
  • Competitive Advantage: Faster time-to-market through efficient development processes
Unbalance Response Simulation

ISO-Compliant Unbalance Analysis

Precise prediction of vibration behavior under unbalance influence – fully compliant with ISO 1940 and other international standards for industrial applications.

  • Automatic balance quality classification based on machine type and operating conditions
  • Multiple unbalance distribution scenarios with flexible positioning along the rotor shaft
  • High-resolution frequency analysis for precise resonance detection
  • Comprehensive bearing force calculation considering dynamic effects
  • Speed-dependent amplitude prediction across the entire operating range
  • Direct comparison capability with permissible limit values
Lagereinflussanalyse

Intelligent Bearing Influence Analysis

Revolutionary bearing impact assessment: Understand precisely how each bearing influences vibration behavior – for targeted optimization and maximum machine reliability.

  • Visual Influence Mapping: Intuitive representation of bearing influence on overall system behavior
  • Flexible Bearing Positioning: Evaluate different bearing positions without model reconstruction
  • Dynamic Force Analysis: Precise prediction of bearing loads across the entire operating range
  • Optimization Recommendations: Automatic suggestions for improved bearing configurations
  • Speed-Dependent Evaluation: Consideration of variable operating conditions
  • Stability Assessment: Identification of optimal bearing parameters for maximum smooth running
3D Mode Visualization

Interactive 3D Vibration Visualization

Make the invisible visible: Advanced 3D visualization transforms complex vibration data into meaningful visual information for better design decisions.

  • Realistic 3D animations of all vibration modes with precise deformation representation
  • Dynamic orbit visualization for shaft motion assessment
  • Comparison function for different operating conditions and design variants
  • Intuitive color coding for stresses, deformations, and critical areas
  • Export of high-quality visualizations for documentation and presentations
  • Interactive exploration enables detailed examination from all perspectives
Intelligent Mode Classification

Mode Classification with Rigid Body Expertise

World-leading energy-based classification algorithms automatically identify and categorize all vibration modes – with unique precision for rigid body modes that challenge even experienced engineers.

  • Advanced Rigid Body Mode Detection: Precisely distinguishes between cylindrical, conical, and axial rigid body motions – even in high-speed rotors with unusually high rigid body frequencies
  • Intelligent Pivot Point Recognition: Automatically identifies pivot positions in conical modes (shaft end, near bearing, mid-span) for targeted design optimization
  • Energy Distribution Analysis: Uses translation/rotation energy ratios and directional dominance for confident mode classification with reliability scores
  • Adaptive Threshold Adjustment: Automatically adapts detection criteria to system characteristics – identifies rigid body modes even in stiffness-optimized high-performance rotors
  • Whirl Direction Detection: Precise differentiation between forward, backward, and standing waves using phase-based analysis
  • Elastic Mode Order Determination: Automatic identification of bending order (1st, 2nd, 3rd bending) through zero-crossing analysis
  • Local vs. Global Mode Recognition: Identifies concentrated vibrations for targeted structural reinforcement
  • Amplitude Uniformity Check: Special analysis for frequency response-based mode extraction with rigid body validation
System Performance Analysis

Holistic System Performance Evaluation

Understand the interaction of all components: Our advanced analysis shows how different system elements influence overall performance.

  • Identification of dominant influencing factors at different operating conditions
  • Assessment of interactions between rotor, bearings, and housing
  • Quantification of stability reserves
  • Sensitivity analysis for critical design parameters
  • Optimization suggestions based on system analysis
  • Robustness evaluation against parameter variations
Quality Verification System

Integrated Quality Assurance System

Highest confidence in your analysis results: Our unique verification system continuously checks the quality and reliability of all calculations.

  • Multi-stage result validation with automatic assessment
  • Confidence indicators for all critical predictions
  • Automatic sensitivity check for parameter uncertainties
  • Comparison of different calculation approaches
  • Transparent presentation of uncertainty ranges
  • Recommendations for low confidence levels
CAD Integration

Seamless CAD Integration

From CAD model to finished analysis in minutes: Direct import of your design data enables fast and error-free modeling of complex rotor geometries.

  • Direct import of STL files from all major CAD systems
  • Automatic geometry recognition and processing
  • Intelligent material assignment for different rotor areas
  • Preservation of all geometric details for precise analysis
  • Validation of imported geometries
  • Time savings from hours to minutes in model creation
Professional Report Generation

Automated Documentation

Professional reports at the push of a button: Our intelligent reporting system automatically creates complete technical documentation for internal reviews or customer presentations.

  • One-click generation of comprehensive technical reports
  • Automatic summary of critical results
  • Integration of all relevant diagrams and visualizations
  • Customizable report templates for different requirements
  • Export to all common formats (PDF, Word, HTML)
  • Multilingual report generation for international projects

JOURNAL FOIL BEARINGS

Journal bearings with multilayer foils

High-precision simulation and optimization of geometry and foil structure in journal bearings for dynamically demanding high-speed applications. The module captures detailed nonlinear hysteresis effects and calculates speed-dependent stiffness and damping coefficients for optimal stability prediction. Comprehensive analysis of temperature influences enables precise design even under extreme operating conditions.

Foil Bearing

Journal Foil Bearings: Revolutionary Thermal Management Technology Premium

Comprehensive Journal Foil Bearing Design

Comprehensive Design Analysis for Journal Foil Bearings

Our journal foil bearing module provides reliable design data for critical turbomachinery applications with radial loads. The validated simulation captures all relevant static and dynamic effects for safe and optimized bearing design.

  • Load Capacity Optimization: Precise calculation of maximum radial load considering eccentricity, temperature effects, and gas properties
  • Lift-off Characteristics: Accurate prediction of lift-off speed for wear-free operation – critical for start-stop cycles
  • Eccentricity & Clearance Geometry: Calculation of minimum film thickness and eccentricity ratios across the entire operating range for collision avoidance
  • Power Loss Analysis: Detailed calculation of viscous friction losses for thermal design and efficiency optimization
  • Dynamic Coefficients: Frequency-dependent stiffness and damping matrices (synchronous/asynchronous) for rotordynamic stability
  • Jeffcott Rotor Stability Analysis: Initial stability assessment with linearized models to identify critical operating points
  • Whirl Prediction: Early warning system for aerodynamic instabilities based on stability maps
Multi-Path Thermal Network

8-Path Thermal Network Simulation for Journal Bearings

Our revolutionary thermal network model captures for the first time ALL relevant heat paths in gas journal bearings - from gas film convection through shaft conduction to housing radiation.

  • 8 simultaneous heat paths: Gas film, structure, backing, radiation, housing, axial conduction, edge cooling and NEW: shaft heat conduction
  • Cylindrical coordinates (z-θ): Exact modeling of radial geometry with axial and circumferential variation
  • Adaptive network topology: Automatic activation/deactivation of paths based on operating conditions
  • Real-time energy balance: Continuous validation with <0.1% deviation for highest accuracy
  • Coupled resistances: Consideration of interactions between all heat paths
  • Visualization: Interactive display of complete thermal network with real-time updates
Taylor Vortex Heat Transfer

Taylor Vortex Heat Transfer: Paradigm Shift for High-Speed Bearings

Complete integration of Taylor-Couette flow effects into thermal analysis of gas bearings. At Ta > 1700, vortex structures form that dramatically alter heat transfer.

  • Automatic regime detection: Laminar → Taylor vortices → Wavy vortices → Turbulent
  • Up to 4x heat transfer enhancement: Precise prediction based on Ta/Ta_critical
  • 3D vortex modeling: Axial and tangential velocity components fully captured
  • Compressibility effects: Mach number corrections for supersonic applications
  • Eccentricity influence: Vortex disruption at high displacements considered
  • Experimentally validated: Correlation with PIV measurements from leading institutes
Adaptive RECAP Technology

Adaptive RECAP Technology: Self-Optimizing Heat Transfer Models

Revolutionary adaptive heat transfer coefficients that adjust in real-time to changing operating conditions. The system iteratively optimizes for maximum prediction accuracy.

  • Dynamic h-value adjustment: 50-800 W/(m²K) based on local flow conditions
  • Multi-parameter optimization: Simultaneous consideration of Re, Ta, Ma, T and geometry
  • Edge enhancement: Up to 50% higher heat dissipation at axial ends through pumping effects
  • Segment boundary modeling: Local turbulence enhancement at pad transitions
  • Iterative refinement: Convergence algorithms use previous iterations for acceleration
  • Physical limits: Automatic compliance with thermodynamic laws
Axial Temperature Analysis

Precise Axial Temperature Prediction with Edge Dilution

Industry-first physics-based modeling of axial temperature distribution with complete capture of edge effects, end face cooling, and axial heat conduction.

  • Edge dilution model: 10-30% heat reduction at axial ends at v > 300 m/s
  • Intelligent peak prediction: Automatic determination of maximum temperature position (±5% accuracy)
  • End face cooling: Modeling of single/double-sided end cooling with heat transfer coefficients
  • Axial heat conduction: Complete 2D conduction in z-θ coordinates solved
  • Bolt mounting effects: Local heat sinks at axial mounting positions
  • Validation: Infrared thermography correlation with <3K deviation
Enclosure Thermodynamics

Enclosure Thermodynamics: The Overlooked Heat Path

Complete modeling of the enclosure environment solves the mystery of unexplained overtemperatures. For the first time, recirculation, buoyancy, and rotation are coupled in simulation.

  • 3 enclosure configurations: Open, partially enclosed, fully enclosed with specific heat transfers
  • Dynamic air temperature: Iterative calculation of enclosure internal temperature
  • Rotation-induced flow: Taylor-Couette effects in enclosure gap considered
  • Natural convection: Grashof number-based buoyancy flow superimposed
  • Ventilation model: Pressure losses and mass flows for ventilation openings
  • Thermal radiation: View factor-based radiation exchange bearing-housing
Shaft Heat Conduction

Shaft Heat Conduction: The New Cooling Path for Extreme Applications

Groundbreaking integration of shaft conduction as an active heat dissipation path. In high-performance applications, up to 30% of heat can be dissipated through the shaft.

  • Solid vs. hollow shaft: Automatic detection and optimized modeling of both designs
  • Material-dependent conduction: Steel, titanium, ceramic - temperature-dependent properties
  • Contact resistance: Microscopic interface modeling bearing-shaft
  • Axial heat flows: Complete integration into overall network
  • Cooling optimization: Recommendations for shaft cooling in critical applications
  • Thermal mass: Transient effects through shaft storage considered
Seal Thermal Effects

Seal Thermodynamics: Integration of Labyrinth and Brush Seals

First-ever complete thermal coupling of bearings and seals. Seal heat and leakage cooling are precisely captured in the overall balance.

  • Labyrinth seals: Joule-Thomson effects and vortex heating modeled
  • Brush seals: Friction heat and bristle pack heat conduction
  • Leakage cooling: Mass flow balance with enthalpy transport
  • Pressure ratio effects: Temperature change through gas expansion
  • Hot gas ingestion: Backflow of hot gases with unfavorable design
  • Optimization algorithms: Automatic seal positioning for minimal heating
Misalignment Thermal Effects

Misalignment Thermodynamics: Hotspot Prediction for Assembly Errors

Revolutionary analysis of thermal consequences from shaft misalignment. Even 0.1mm parallel offset can cause local overtemperatures of 50K.

  • 3D misalignment: Angular and parallel offset analyzed in combination
  • Local load peaks: Up to 300% higher surface pressure at hotspots
  • Asymmetric heat distribution: Prediction of temperature imbalance
  • Wear prognosis: Accelerated degradation at overload zones
  • Assembly tolerances: Thermally permissible misalignment calculated
  • Self-alignment: Thermal deformations can improve/worsen alignment
Design Optimization Recommendations

Intelligent Recommendation Mechanism for Optimal Bearing Design

Our advanced recommendation algorithm analyzes all simulation results and automatically generates concrete optimization suggestions for maximum performance and lifetime.

  • Geometry optimization: Automatic suggestions for clearance, L/D ratio and segment number based on thermal limits
  • Cooling concept recommendations: Comparison of end face cooling, shaft cooling and housing ventilation with cost-benefit analysis
  • Material alternatives: Evaluation of different foil materials and coatings for optimal heat dissipation
  • Operating point shift: Suggestions for safe speed and load ranges with stability margin
  • Assembly guidelines: Precise tolerance recommendations for alignment and preload to avoid hotspots
  • Maintenance interval prognosis: Lifetime calculation based on temperature cycles and wear models
  • Priority ranking: Weighted evaluation of all measures by effectiveness and implementation effort
Automated Thermal Reports

One-Click Thermal Reports: From Analysis to Documentation in Seconds

Save weeks of report creation! Our automated documentation creates complete thermal analysis reports with all critical information.

  • Interactive SVG networks: Clickable heat path visualizations with live data
  • 3D temperature fields: Rotatable displays with hotspot markings
  • Comparative analyses: Automatic comparison of different cooling concepts
  • Optimization recommendations: Structured suggestions for temperature reduction
  • Standards compliance: Automatic checking against API, ISO and customer specifications
  • Multi-format export: PDF, Word, HTML5 and PowerPoint with one click

THRUST FOIL BEARINGS

Comprehensive Design, Analysis & Thermal Management

Industry-leading comprehensive solution for thrust foil bearings with precise load capacity calculation and validated prediction of critical temperature hotspots. The unique multiphysics approach integrates structural-mechanical foil modeling, RECAP technology, adaptive edge effect simulation and advanced cooling strategies to prevent bearing failures in high-speed turbomachinery. The fully coupled model captures all relevant mechanisms from gas film dynamics through structural deformations to heat dissipation for safe design under real operating conditions.

Foil Bearing

Thrust Foil Bearings: Mastering All Design Challenges Premium

Hydrodynamic pressure build-up

Precise Thrust Bearing Design for Extreme Requirements

The thrust foil bearing module delivers reliable design data for critical turbomachinery applications with axial loads up to 500 N and speeds exceeding 150,000 RPM. The validated simulation captures all relevant physical effects for safe and optimized bearing design.

  • Load Capacity Optimization: Precise calculation of maximum axial load considering temperature effects and gas properties
  • Multi-Layer Foil Modeling: Detailed analysis of complex interactions between top foil, bump foils and support structure
  • Start-Stop Optimization: Minimization of startup wear through optimized foil geometry and design parameters
  • Gas Media Flexibility: Validated models for air, hydrogen, helium and process gases in fuel cell systems
  • Damping Properties: Speed-dependent stiffness and damping coefficients for rotordynamic coupling
Validated temperature hotspot prediction

Physics-Based Hotspot Prediction Prevents Catastrophic Failures

Thermal failure remains the main challenge in high-speed thrust bearings. The validated simulation identifies critical temperature zones with unprecedented accuracy through advanced thermal resistance networks.

  • Industry Challenge: Unpredictable thermal failures due to undetected temperature peaks in high-speed applications
  • Solution: Coupled thermal-mechanical simulation with comprehensive heat path analysis
  • Key Innovation: Adaptive RECAP coefficients capture local flow conditions and edge effects
  • Validation: Correlation with infrared thermography and embedded sensor measurements
  • Business Benefit: Transformation from reactive maintenance to predictive design optimization
Multiphysics heat transfer network

Fully Coupled Thermal Network Model

The RoLaSIM thrust foil bearing module integrates a revolutionary thermal network model in which all heat transfer mechanisms are mapped as a coupled system.

  • Holistic Network Architecture: Parallel heat paths are modeled with dynamic weighting and mutual interaction
  • Multiphysics Integration: Convection, conduction, radiation and enclosure effects are captured simultaneously in one computational model
  • Adaptive Path Analysis: Automatic identification of dominant heat paths for each operating condition
  • Enclosure Space Modeling: Housing-air interactions and recirculation phenomena are fully considered
  • Experimentally Validated Methodology: Extensive validation by leading research institutes confirms model accuracy
RECAP edge cooling technology

RECAP Technology: Revolutionary Edge Cooling Modeling

High-speed rotation generates complex flow patterns at bearing edges. The RECAP technology precisely captures these critical effects that conventional models overlook.

  • Industry Challenge: Edge overheating causes premature failures in high-speed applications
  • Innovation: Adaptive heat transfer coefficients based on local Reynolds and Mach numbers
  • Pumping Effects: Quantified centrifugal-driven gas exchange at bearing periphery
  • Segment Boundaries: Increased turbulence and mixing at pad interfaces
  • Validation Method: PIV measurements and thermography correlation
Detailed resistance distribution

High-Resolution Resistance Mapping for Precise Thermal Management

SADAP's advanced thermal analysis engine enables for the first time the complete spatial resolution of all thermal resistances in thrust foil bearings.

  • Multi-Dimensional Resistance Analysis: Simultaneous capture of gas film, structure, contact and radiation resistances in high-resolution spatial distribution
  • Intelligent Path Identification: Automatic detection of critical heat flow paths and thermal bottlenecks throughout the bearing system
  • Contact Zone Modeling: Detailed mapping of local contact resistances at bolt connections and mounting points
  • Edge Effect Characterization: Precise modeling of complex heat transfers in radial edge regions
  • Predictive Hotspot Localization: Reliable prediction of critical temperature zones through physics-based resistance analysis
Sector-based cooling design

Sector-Based Cooling Design for Optimal Heat Dissipation

Revolutionary approach divides bearings into thermal sectors, each with adapted cooling based on local heat generation and temperature requirements.

  • Industry Challenge: Uniform cooling wastes resources and leaves hotspots undercooled
  • Intelligent Distribution: Priority-based flow allocation to critical sectors
  • Channel Optimization: Geometry selection per sector (straight, meandering, pin fins, etc.)
  • Real-Time Adaptation: Cooling adapts to changing load conditions
  • Efficiency Gain: Reduced pump power with improved temperature uniformity
Lambda-based intelligent cooling technologies

Intelligent Lambda-Based Cooling Strategy with State-of-the-Art Technologies

Revolutionary automatic selection of optimal cooling technology based on bearing number analysis (Λ). The system intelligently selects from six validated cooling solutions for maximum efficiency at any operating condition.

  • Industry Challenge: Wrong cooling selection leads to overheating or energy waste with varying thermal loads
  • Lambda Algorithm: Intelligent parameter-based selection from comprehensive technology library for optimal thermal management
  • Air Mist Cooling: Evaporation enhancement for extreme temperature reduction at high Lambda values
  • Jet Impingement Cooling: Targeted high-performance cooling for stubborn hotspots in critical sectors
  • Metal Foam & Heat Pipes: Passive solutions with increased surface area for moderate thermal loads
  • Hybrid Systems: Automatic combination of multiple technologies for ultimate performance in extreme cases
  • Cost-Benefit Optimization: Balanced cooling effectiveness with implementation complexity and operating costs
Housing thermal management

Housing Thermal Management: The Hidden Challenge

Industry-first comprehensive modeling of housing effects on bearing temperature prevents unexpected overheating in enclosed systems.

  • Industry Challenge: Bearing failures in encapsulated applications despite adequate cooling design
  • Complete Modeling: Coupled bearing-housing-environment heat transfer analysis
  • Configuration Support: Fully enclosed, vented, forced ventilation
  • Natural Convection: Buoyancy-driven flows in housing air space
  • Design Optimization: Ventilation placement and sizing for thermal management
Extended operating range

Extend Operating Range Through Thermal Optimization

Push the boundaries of bearing performance through identification and mitigation of thermal limitations, enabling higher speeds and loads.

  • Industry Need: Increasing power density requirements in turbomachinery applications
  • Thermal Mapping: Identification of temperature-limited operating regions
  • Cooling Optimization: Targeted solutions to extend safe operating range
  • Material Selection: Temperature-appropriate bearing and coating materials
  • Safety Margins: Built-in thermal protection with real-time monitoring guidelines
Automated documentation

Automated Thermal Analysis Documentation

Save weeks of development time with automated report generation for thrust foil bearing thermal analysis. The industry's first fully automatic documentation solution for gas foil bearing thermal management.

  • One-Click Thermal Reports: Generate comprehensive reports in minutes instead of weeks – including 3D visualizations, temperature distributions and cooling system design
  • Multi-Scenario Analysis: Automatically compares different cooling strategies (passive, active, hybrid) with ROI calculations and recommendations for specific applications
  • Predictive Thermal Intelligence: AI-based prediction of critical hotspots at 72-88% radial position – validated by experimental data from leading research institutes
  • Integrated Failure Analysis: Automatic FMEA for thermal failure with maintenance strategies and lifecycle cost optimization – reduces failure risks
  • Practice Validation: Considers manufacturing tolerances, material degradation and transient operating conditions for realistic predictions instead of idealized models

RADIAL SPIRAL GROOVE BEARINGS

Herringbone & Spiral Groove

High-precision simulation and parametric optimization of journal bearings with spiral groove or herringbone structures for low-friction high-speed applications. The detailed groove geometry analysis and pressure distribution simulation enable optimal geometry configuration for various gas media (air, H₂, He). The integrated instability prediction minimizes development risks and ensures reliable bearing performance across the entire operating range.

Air bearing

Radial Spiral Groove Bearings: Detailed Functions Specialized

Radial Spiral Groove Bearing Analysis

Geometric Parameter Optimization

The Radial Spiral Groove Bearing module offers advanced simulation functions for precise design and optimization of spiral and herringbone structures in highly loaded journal bearings.

  • Parametric optimization of groove geometry for maximum pressure development and minimum friction
  • High-resolution analysis of groove geometry with detailed pressure profile simulation
  • Comprehensive gas media characterization for various applications (air, hydrogen, helium)
  • Advanced instability prediction and mitigation for safe high-speed operation
  • Integrated optimization algorithms for application-specific geometry adaptations

AXIAL SPIRAL GROOVE BEARINGS

Optimized Axial Loading

Specialized development and optimization of thrust bearings with spiral groove structure for maximum efficiency and load capacity under axial loads. The precise geometry optimization and high-resolution pressure profile analysis ensure an optimal load capacity-to-friction ratio. The detailed speed dependency analysis enables the design of robust thrust bearings for varying operating conditions with maximum axial force absorption at minimal energy dissipation.

Air Bearing

Axial Spiral Groove Bearings: Detailed Functions Specialized

Axial Spiral Groove Bearing Analysis

Maximized Axial Load Capacity

The Axial Spiral Groove Bearing module offers specialized functions for optimizing thrust bearings with spiral groove structure for maximum load capacity with minimum friction.

  • Precise geometry optimization of spiral groove structure for maximum pressure development
  • High-resolution pressure profile analysis with 3D visualization for detailed insights
  • Optimization of load capacity-to-friction ratio for energy-efficient bearing design
  • Comprehensive speed dependency analysis for variable operating conditions
  • Integrated thermal analysis with temperature distribution calculation and heat flow modeling

Comprehensive Analysis Capabilities for Turbomachinery Design

Rotordynamic Analysis

  • Critical speeds and amplitude calculation for reliable operating range determination
  • Campbell diagrams with color-coded damping values to visualize speed-dependent natural frequencies
  • 3D visualization of bending modes and vibration modes with animation
  • Complete stability analysis with logarithmic decrement and whirl frequencies
  • Detailed calculation of gyroscopic effects and anisotropic bearing properties
  • Precise damping predictions for realistic vibration behavior
  • Comprehensive unbalance response and balance quality analysis according to ISO 1940 with automatic report generation
  • Advanced sensitivity analyses for critical design parameters and material influences

Aerodynamic Bearing Optimization

  • High-precision spiral groove bearing geometry optimization for maximum pressure development with minimum friction
  • Advanced multi-layer foil structure analysis for improved damping properties
  • High-resolution pressure distribution profiles with 3D visualization and export function
  • Speed-dependent stiffness and damping coefficients for accurate rotordynamic simulation
  • Detailed lift-off behavior and start-up analysis for start-stop cycles and wear minimization
  • Comprehensive temperature distribution and thermal deformation calculation
  • Multivariable parameter optimization for specific operational requirements and operating conditions
  • Simulation of various gas media (air, helium, hydrogen, etc.) for special applications

Integration & Tools

  • Seamless bearing-rotor integration for holistic system analysis with true bidirectional coupling
  • Extensive material database with editable properties and temperature dependencies
  • Versatile export and report functions (PDF, Excel, CSV, MATLAB) with customizable templates
  • Intuitive design wizard with intelligent geometry suggestions for quick modeling
  • Automatic parameter sweep analyses for optimal design point determination in complex systems
  • Advanced design optimization with customizable objective functions and constraints
  • Interactive visualizations of all calculation results with zoom, rotation, and export functions
  • Comprehensive comparison functions for different design variants with automatic difference analysis

Key Benefits for Your Development Process

Validated Precision

  • Scientifically validated algorithms for highest calculation accuracy
  • Results verified by experimental data
  • Precise prediction of dynamic system behavior
  • Reliable stability even under complex operating conditions

Outstanding Flexibility

  • Modular architecture for customized analyses
  • Wide range of bearing types and configurations
  • Customizable reports and export formats

Comprehensive Analyses

  • Complete rotordynamic analysis with critical speeds
  • Specialized bearing modules for aerodynamic bearings
  • Detailed stability investigations
  • Unbalance response and operating amplitudes

Efficient Processes

  • Accelerated development cycles through automated analyses
  • Parameter optimization with intelligent algorithms
  • Automated report generation for quick documentation
  • Time savings through intuitive operation

Visual Insights

  • Interactive 3D visualization of mode shapes
  • Campbell diagrams with color-coded damping representation
  • Detailed pressure profiles in bearings
  • Animated display of vibration modes

Expert Support

  • Scientific support from domain experts
  • Comprehensive documentation and tutorials
  • Regular updates with latest features
  • Training and onboarding offerings

Adaptive Solutions

At SADAP, we offer flexible solution paths for optimal design of your turbomachinery and high-speed systems. While our RoLaSIM software provides a comprehensive platform for independent simulation and design of rotors and aerodynamic bearings, you can also take advantage of our specialized development services if you want to outsource the complex design task.

Explore our Aerodynamic Bearing Development Services — let our experts develop the optimal bearing geometry for your specific applications, with years of experience, validated methodology, and comprehensive scientific expertise in the field of air and foil bearings.

Starten Sie jetzt mit RoLaSIM

Transformieren Sie Ihre Rotordynamik- und Lagerentwicklung mit der fortschrittlichsten Simulationssoftware auf dem Markt. Optimieren Sie Turbomaschinen, Kompressoren und Hochgeschwindigkeitssysteme mit wissenschaftlich validierter Präzisionstechnologie. Ob Automotive, Luft- und Raumfahrt oder Medizintechnik: Sichern Sie sich überlegene Produktqualität durch KI-gestützte Rotordynamikanalyse.