Objectives This study comprehensively investigates the applicability of different anti-shock analysis methods to the water-lubricated bearing of a marine propulsion shaft system.

Methods The dynamic design analysis method (DDAM), BV0430/85-based time domain analysis method, transient dynamics method and experimental analysis method are respectively used to analyze the anti-shock properties of a water-lubricated stern bearing. The comparative analysis involves assessing the input shock spectrum and stress outcomes generated by each method, offering insights into the robustness of their respective shock environments and suitability for water-lubricated bearings.

Results After analyzing the stress results at the bearing flange and slab, the results show that the DDAM method has the largest result, followed by the time domain analysis method, and the transient dynamics method has the smallest result. The water-lubricated bearing model has certain limitations in terms of large and concentrated shock inputs when analyzed by DDAM. The time domain analysis method and transient dynamics method are both real-time simulation methods in the time domain, and the former can be chosen in harsh environments, while the latter allows for the flexible design of the shock spectrum. The experimental analysis method is accurate and reliable, but the cost is too high.

Conclusions The findings of this study offer valuable insights that can serve as references for the optimization of water-lubricated bearing structures.