Define Lateral Load - Actions in POT Bearings?
Lateral load is transferred from the piston to the POT by contact between the rim of the piston and the wall of the POT. The contact stresses are generally very high. Lateral loads may also contribute to increased wear of the elastomeric pads and greater potential for wear and fracture of the sealing rings. The damage observed in tests suggests that the lateral load should be carried through an independent mechanism wherever possible.