Dynamic characteristics analysis of a misaligned rotor-bearing system with squeeze film dampers

Abstract

In this paper, a dynamic model is established for a two-stage rotor system connected by a gear coupling and supported on ball bearings with squeeze film dampers (SFDs). The nonlinear dynamic behavior of the rotor system is studied under misalignment fault condition. The meshing force of the gear coupling is calculated considering the deformation of the tooth caused by torque transmission and dynamic vibration. The contact force between the ball and race is computed based on the Hertzian elastic contact deformation theory and the elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory. The supported force of SFD is simulated by integrating the pressure distribution derived from Reynolds’s equation. The equations of motion are rewritten in non-dimensional differential form, and the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method is employed to solve the nonlinear dynamic equilibrium equations iteratively. To verify the validity of the dynamic model and the correctness of the numerical solution method, the experimental power spectra of the rotor system under various misalignment degrees are compared with the analytical results. The effects of several important parameters, such as the lubrication of the ball bearing, the centralizing spring stiffness, the radial clearance of SFD, and the misalignment of gear coupling, on the dynamic characteristics of the rotor system are investigated and discussed mainly focusing on the system stability. The response spectra, bifurcation diagrams, and Pointcare maps are analyzed accordingly. These parametric analyses are very helpful in the development of a high-speed rotor system and provide a theoretical reference for the vibration control and optimal design of rotating machinery.