Active hybrid bearings as mean for improving stability and diagnostics of heavy rotors of power generating machinery

Abstract

Abstract The article describes a theoretical study of basic features of active hybrid bearings used as supports for heavy energy-generating machines equipment, primarily turbine generators and their turbines. Due to the adjustable oil supply pressure and using a controller of a rotor position AHB reduces its vibration level. Vibration velocity can be reduced from several times for smaller rotors to tens of percent for heavier ones. The eccentricity of the rotor position in the bearing also affects the efficiency of vibration reduction. In this case also some nonlinear effects are observed. In addition, AHB can possibly be used as a diagnostic tool for monitoring the health of a heavy power generating machinery due to its ability to generate power test impulses for rotor excitation and further analysis of its response.