Limit Cycle Predictions of a Nonlinear Journal-Bearing System

Abstract

An analysis is presented of the self-excited vibrations of a journal carried in a cylindrical fluid film bearing. Using linear stability theory, the values of the system parameters at the point of loss of stability are determined. These values agree well with those of previous investigators. Solutions of the nonlinear system equations are obtained by time discretization and by an arc-continuation method for solving the obtained nonlinear algebraic equations. In this way periodic solutions of the nonlinear equations of motion are calculated as a function of the system parameters. The behavior of the journal can be explained by the results of these calculations.