Michell Pad Apparatus
Product Code : EL-TOMP-11420
Quick Answer: The Michell Pad Apparatus is a bench-mounting unit with an aluminium pad above a continuous loop flat belt that runs through an oil reservoir, forming a pressurised oil film under the pad. Thirteen graduated tubes show the oil pressure across and along the film.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
- Aluminium pad mounted above a continuous loop flat belt
- Belt runs in an oil reservoir to keep oil supplied under the pad
- Two eccentric shafts set the tilt angle of the pad
- Micrometers measure the positions of the front and rear edges of the pad
- Set of thirteen graduated tubes shows oil pressure across and along the film
- Variable speed control for the belt motor; container of oil and a viscometer included
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Pad | Aluminium plate, tilt set by two eccentric shafts |
| Belt | Continuous loop flat belt in an oil reservoir |
| Pressure tubes | Thirteen graduated tubes |
| Edge measurement | Micrometers |
| Included | Variable speed control, container of oil, viscometer |
About This Product
The apparatus models a tilting pad thrust bearing, where a wedge of oil carries the load. Students change the pad tilt and belt speed and measure oil viscosity to find how film thickness, sliding speed and viscosity affect the pressure distribution under the pad. Educational Instrument can dispatch the Michell Pad Apparatus to laboratories in Japan, Côte d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Seychelles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the oil viscosity found?
A viscometer and a container of oil are included, so students can measure the viscosity of the oil they are using.
How is the pad angle set?
Two eccentric shafts hold the pad so its tilt can be adjusted, and micrometers measure the positions of its front and rear edges.
Related: Theory of Machines Products, Air Bearing Apparatus and Hertzian Contact Apparatus.
For a quotation on the Michell Pad Apparatus, contact Educational Instrument.
