Measurement technologies for tribological monitoring of tilting‐pad journal bearings: a review

Recently, there has been an uptrend in interest in adopting tilting-pad sliding bearings for wind turbine main bearing applications. Manufacturers have opted for designs with interchangeable pads, emphasizing the importance of ease of maintenance. However, effective monitoring technologies are essential to identify pads that require replacement. Additionally, full-scale testing of these large bearings is costly, necessitating carefully planned instrumentation to maximize data yield. Consequently, this article explores the available sensing technologies for performance monitoring of tilting-pad sliding bearings. Parameters are critically evaluated and key findings summarized in a table that includes each parameter's measurement methods, limitations, accuracy, and technology readiness level. Given current limitations, a multisensor approach is recommended as integrating multiple sensing methods to measure a range of bearing parameters can maximize data yield and reduce uncertainty.