Nonlinear dynamic analysis of a Stockbridge damper

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to validate a nonlinear mathematical model (finite element method) for dynamic simulation of Stockbridge dampers of electric transmission line cables. To obtain the mathematical model, a nonlinear cantilever beam with a tip mass was used. The mathematical model incorporates a nonlinear stiffness matrix of the element due to the nonlinear curvature effect of the beam. To validate the mathematical model, the numerical results were compared with experimental data obtained on a machine adapted from cam test. Five different circular cam profiles with eccentricities of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.25, and 1.5 mm were used. Vibration data were collected through three accelerometers arranged along the sample. A good concordance was found between the numerical and experimental data. The same behavior was observed in tests of another Stockbridge damper excited by a shaker. The nonlinear behavior of the system was evidenced.