Optimization of Nonlinear Unbalanced Flexible Rotating Shaft Passing Through Critical Speeds

Abstract

This work studies the nonlinear oscillations of an elastic rotating shaft with acceleration to pass through the critical speeds. A mathematical model incorporating the Von-Karman higher-order deformations in bending is developed to investigate the nonlinear dynamics of rotors. A flexible shaft on flexible bearings with springs and dampers is considered as rotor system for this work. The shaft is modeled as a beam and the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory is applied. The kinetic and strain energies of the rotor system are derived and Lagrange method is then applied to obtain the coupled nonlinear differential equations of motion for 6 degrees of freedom. In order to solve these equations numerically, the finite element method (FEM) is used. Furthermore, for different bearing properties, rotor responses are examined and curves of passing through critical speeds with angular acceleration due to applied torque are plotted. Then the optimal values of bearing stiffness and damping are calculated to achieve the minimum vibration amplitude, which causes to pass easier through critical speeds. It is concluded that the value of damping and stiffness of bearing change the rotor critical speeds and also significantly affect the dynamic behavior of the rotor system. These effects are also presented graphically and discussed.