Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of a Rigid Rotor Supported by a Three-Pad Hydrostatic Squeeze Film Dampers

The aim of this article is to study the nonlinear dynamic behavior of rigid rotors, supported by a new hydrostatic squeeze film damper (HSFD). A nonlinear model of an HSFD is presented. The results are compared with those obtained from a linear approach that is only valid for small vibrations around the equilibrium position. Compared to the four-pad HSFD, the advantage of using a three-pad HSFD consists of reducing the cost due to the need for a feeding system and the volumetric flow rate used in hydrostatic lubrication. In this study, the effects of the pad dimensions ratios, capillary diameters, and rotational speed on the flow rate, unbalance responses, and transmitted forces are investigated using a nonlinear method and the results are analyzed and discussed. The results obtained show that this type of HSFD provides hydrostatic designers with a new bearing configuration suitable to control rotor vibrations and bearing transmitted forces for high speeds.