New analysis model for rotor-bearing systems based on plate theory

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to develop a new analysis model for angular-contact, ball-bearing systems on the basis of plate theory instead of commonly known approaches that utilize spring elements. Axial and radial stiffness on an annular plate are developed based on plate, Timoshenko beam, and plasticity theories. The model is developed using theoretical and inductive methods and validated through a numerical simulation with the finite element method. The new analysis model is suitable for static and modal analyses of rotor-bearing systems. Numerical examples are presented to reveal the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed approach.