Vibration analysis of a rotor-bearing system using magneto-rheological elastomers

Magneto rheological materials are considered as a promising adaptive means of vibration control. This paper proposes a new configuration of smart bearings comprising magneto-rheological elastomer (MRE) layer inserted between the bearing pedestal and the foundation. This configuration provides a directional vibration controllability in both horizontal and vertical directions of a rotor-bearing system. The effect of using MRE layer on the vibration response and the resonant speeds of a rotor-bearing system is investigated. The finite element method is used to derive a dynamic model for the rotor-bearing system using shaft elements based on the Rayleigh beam theory and accounting for the gyroscopic effect and internal damping of the shaft. Simulation results reveal that the use of MRE materials in passive mode leads to downshifting of the first two resonant speeds and the attenuation of the steady state vibration response of the rotor bearing system in the horizontal and vertical directions at the resonance frequencies. When the MRE layer is subjected to a magnetic field generated by an electric current produced in the magnetic coil, the horizontal and vertical vibration responses are increased at the resonant speeds but decreased at other rotational speed ranges. Furthermore, the first two resonant speeds in the horizontal and vertical directions decrease further with the increase of the electric current.