Design and modeling of a novel active squeeze film damper

Rotating machinery support design with the aim of reducing the amplitude vibration and force transmitted to the foundation has significant importance regarding the various applications of these machineries. In this paper, a theoretical model for an active squeeze film damper (ASFD) is introduced as an option in the vibration control field. The design is based on the SFD with the controllability characteristics of magnetic bearing, which allows the development of a variable force, and a change in fluid film stiffness and damping. It is assumed that the SFD and the AMB are collocated, whether adjacent or integrated in a single unit. Expressions for the oil film forces and magnetic force are obtained. Then, the dynamic equations of the combine both bearings in a single bearing are presented. The vibration control of a rigid rotor is taken as an example of the application of the new design. The possibility of suppressing rotor vibrations and transmitted forces is demonstrated by means of numerical experiments. The simulation shows that in this type of application, good vibration control can be achieved by using new active squeeze-film damper. The potential benefits of varying the magnetic bearing parameters can thus be examined for any given rotor bearing configuration.