Experimental Analysis of an Optimal Designed Multi-DOF Viscoelastic Support for Passive Vibration Control in Rotor Dynamics

Purpose Viscoelastic supports (VES) are bearing-foundation systems containing viscoelastic materials with high capacity of vibration energy dissipation. The application of VES on rotating machinery allows for a safe operation around critical speeds while suppressing peaks of vibration amplification. This paper presents an experimental validation of a multi-degree-of-freedom (multi-DOF) VES independently designed with regards to viscoelastic stiffness in translational and rotational DOF. Method An optimal design of the multi-DOF VES is obtained using a methodology developed in previous works and a prototype is constructed and integrated into the rotating system to be experimentally validated. Run-down measurements were carried out and compared with the frequency unbalance response numerical predictions. Results The run-down measurements exhibit excellent agreement with numerical predictions, particularly in terms of frequency accuracy. These results highlight the effectiveness of the optimally designed multi-DOF VES in controlling the unbalance frequency response over the entire spin speed range of a dual-disc rotating system. This leads to a significant reduction in response amplitude at critical speed when compared to the rotating system supported on rigid bearings. Conclusion The experimental validation of the multi-DOF VES demonstrates its capability to enhance the performance and safety of rotating machinery operating around critical speeds. The optimized design effectively mitigates response amplitudes at critical speeds, validating the methodology presented in previous works. The findings underscore the practical applicability of the proposed approach, positioning the multi-DOF VES as a valuable tool for controlling the unbalance frequency response in rotating systems.