Test Results And Numerical Simulation Of AMB Rotor Drop

Test Results And Numerical Simulation Of AMB Rotor Drop

Swanson, E.E., Raju, K.V.S., Kirk, R.G., 1996
Proc. 6th Int’l Conf. on Vibrations in Rotating Mach., IMechE, pp. 119-131

Abstract

Active magnetic bearings (AMB) for use in land based turbomachinery has enjoyed substantial growth during the past decade. Their advantages to many applications make them an attractive solution for potentially low loss and efficient support of both radial and thrust loads. New machinery must be shop tested prior to shipment to the field for installation on-line. One necessary test is the satisfactory performance of the emergency overload backup bearings. A major concern treated by this paper is the verification of the calculation of the transient response during rotor drop and estimation of the contact forces on the radial backup bearings. The calculation technique is reviewed and results of transient response evaluation of a fill-size test rotor are compared to the reported test experimental drops. Recommendations will be given to improve the probability of stable operation during rotor drop on the test stand and in the field operating condition.