Theoretical analysis on the static and dynamic performances of a squeeze film air journal bearing with three separate pads structure

•A modified dynamic coefficients calculation method is originally proposed in order to predict the dynamic performance of the squeeze film bearing.•Comparison between the predicted and published experimental data validate the proposed calculation method.•The numerical results provide a guidance about the design of the bearing vibration amplitude and nominal clearance.•Reasonably adjusting the vibration amplitude of each pad controls the bearing running performance.