Case Study: Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory improves CO2 thrust bearing performance with COMSOL Multiphysics

Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory improves CO2 thrust bearing performance with Comsol at 35,000 rpm

Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory faced a challenge with its supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton power cycle system, where the turbine shaft thrust bearings were experiencing extensive wear at certain high speeds and pressures. To analyze this multiphysics problem, KAPL utilized simulation software from the vendor Comsol, specifically COMSOL Multiphysics.

Using Comsol's solution, the team was able to model and analyze the interacting structural mechanics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer within the system. This deep understanding allowed them to optimize the bearing geometry, which ultimately improved bearing performance and addressed the wear issue.

Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory