Bearing assemblies, apparatuses, and motor assemblies using the same

摘要

Bearing assemblies, apparatuses, and motor assemblies using the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly may include a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed circumferentially about an axis. Each of the superhard bearing elements may include a bearing surface. At least one of the plurality of superhard bearing elements may include one or more grooves may be formed in the bearing surface thereof. The bearing assembly may also include a support ring that carries the superhard bearing elements.

主权项

1. A bearing assembly, comprising:
a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed circumferentially about an axis, at least some of the plurality of superhard bearing elements including:
a first end surface and a second end surface positioned generally opposite the first end surface;a first side surface extending between the first end surface and the second end surface;a second side surface positioned generally opposite the first side surface;a bearing surface extending between the first end surface, the second end surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface, the bearing surface including at least one groove formed therein that extends primarily longitudinally from the first end surface to at least an intermediate location between the first end surface and the second end surface, at least a portion of the at least one groove including a cross-sectional area at least partially defined between opposing sidewalls of the at least one groove, the cross-sectional area having a generally v-shaped geometry, a generally parabolic geometry, or a generally rectangular geometry; and a support ring that carries the plurality of superhard bearing elements; wherein no intersections are formed by the at least one groove.