Hydrodynamic Journal Bearing Optimization Considering Rotor Dynamic Constraints

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High-performance machines usually operate at a high rotational speed and produce significant static and dynamic loads which affect the bearings. Fluid film journal bearings play a major role in the machine’s overall reliability as well as rotor-bearing system vibration and performance characteristics. Bearing modeling should be based on accurate physical effect simulation. To ensure reliable operation of the bearing system, design should be performed based, not only on simulation results for the hydrodynamic bearing itself, but also on the rotor dynamic results for the particular rotor-bearing system since bearing characteristics significantly influence the rotor vibration response.

Rotordynamics

SoftInWay, a leading turbomachinery solutions provider, has accumulated a wealth of experience in the field of design and analysis of manifold rotor-bearing systems such as steam and gas turbines, axial/radial compressors, turbochargers, pumps, generators and motors, and more. A set of special software tools and modules for rotor-bearing system design, rotor dynamics analysis, and bearings simulation was developed by SoftInWay to support modern engineering projects and satisfy both the requests of designers and rotor dynamics analysts.

Hydrodynamic Journal Bearing Optimization Considering Rotor Dynamic Constraints

In this webinar, the hydrodynamic journal bearing optimization methodology will be considered. The approach involves multidisciplinary simulations of the entire rotor-bearing system. These simulations consist of bearing hydrodynamic characteristic calculations and optimization as well as rotor dynamic analyses for the rotor-bearing system, which are taken into the account as constraints during optimization. The study shows how different parameters, such as bearing clearance, length, etc., influence key performance characteristics such as the bearing minimum oil film thickness, friction power, and the rotor-bearing system critical speeds. The method was applied to optimize journal bearings for a  powerful induction motor with regards to power losses and rotor dynamic restrictions. The optimization process is powered by the software AxSTREAM ION. The modules, AxSTREAM RotorDynamics and AxSTREAM Bearing, are used to simulate the characteristics for the rotor-bearing system.

The webinar session will include:

  • A brief introduction to rotor-bearing system design and analysis problems
  • An overview and description of the hydrodynamical journal bearings optimization methodology
  • A case consideration of hydrodynamic journal bearing optimization for a 13.5 MW induction motor
  • A live demonstration of AxSTREAM RotorDynamics and Bearing simulation software capabilities and features

Who should attend:

  • Rotating machinery equipment engineers and designers interested in calculating and optimizing machine rotor dynamics and bearings
  • Engineers interested in improving machine life and performance with optimal bearings
  • Engineering students interested in the future of turbomachinery design and optimization

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