Vibration analysis of a rotor supported on magnetorheological squeeze film damper with short bearing approximation: A contrast between short and long bearing approximations

Squeeze film dampers are widely used to reduce the vibration of rotating systems. Using magnetorheological fluid in these dampers can lead to a variable-damping damper called Magnetorheological Squeeze Film Damper (MRSFD). Magnetorheological fluid viscosity alter under different values of magnetic field. The previous research have widely used long bearing approximation to derive the equations governing the hydrodynamic behavior of MRSFDs. In this paper, the behavior of MRSFDs has been studied using short bearing approximation. Next, the effects of MRSFDs on the dynamic behavior of a flexible rotor have been studied, using finite element method (FEM). Synchronous whirl motion has not been imposed on the system behavior, as an external assumption. Damper pressure distribution and forces, dynamic trajectories, eccentricity and the frequency response of the rotor are tools used to analyze the dynamic behavior of MRSFDs and rotor system. As the results show, it seems to be more precise to use short bearing approximation to analyze dampers with aspect ratios lower than a limit (especially L/D < 1). Furthermore, by controlling electrical current one can control the dynamic behavior of a rotor, to avoid failure and damage. Finally, the whirl motion of the rotor was observed to remain synchronous, even when fluid forces are present.