Vibration Simulation of the Turbine Rotor System of an Underwater Vehicle Considering the Bearing Radial Clearance

Abstract

The turbine rotor system (TRS) is one important part of an underwater vehicle (UV). Its vibration and noise characteristics can greatly affect the performance and service life of the UV. To study the influence of radial clearance of supporting bearings on the vibrations of the whole TRS of the UV, a flexible dynamic model of the TRS is established by using the finite element and multi-body methods. Vibrations of the TRS from the rigid and flexible dynamic models under different bearing clearance conditions are analyzed. Note that the TRS with the flexible body model can obtain more accurate vibrations than the rigid one. The maximum vibration amplitude increases with the increment of bearing clearance. The bearing clearance of 5 micrometers to 20 micrometers is more reasonable for controlling the system vibration. The smaller clearance of supporting bearings of the TRS can cause more stable vibration responses. This paper can provide additional guidance for the accurate simulation analysis method of the TRSs of the UVs.

Vibration Analysis and Suppression Methods of the Wing of an Underwater Glider

“…Abnormal vibrations of underwater mechanical systems can pose potential hazards to structures such as engines, turbines and shafts, by inducing fatigue, added wear, and cracking of the components. 1,2 Moreover, vibrations can generate additional noises, reducing the concealment of underwater mechanical systems. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the behaviors and performance of underwater mechanical systems through vibration analysis, 3,4 which can detect the abnormal vibrations and prevent potential harm to the structures.…”