Nonlinear Dynamic Behavior of a Rigid Rotor Supported by Hydrostatic Squeeze Film Dampers

Abstract This research project aims to study the nonlinear dynamic behavior of a rigid rotor supported by hydrostatic squeeze film dampers (HSFDs). The investigated HSFD consists of four hydrostatic bearing flat pads fed by capillary restrictors. A nonlinear hydrostatic squeeze film damper model is developed, and the results are compared with those obtained using a linear approach. The effect of unbalance eccentricity on the vibration response and the transmitted force of the HSFD are investigated using the linear and nonlinear models. The results show good agreement between the linear and nonlinear methods when the unbalance force is small. However, as the unbalance forces become larger, the results obtained using the linear models cease to be representative of the real behavior of rotor dynamics and a nonlinear approach must be conducted. The effects of supply pressure, viscosity, pressure ratio, and rotational speed on the response and the force transmitted to the HSFD are investigated using a nonlinear approach.