Abstract
M.Ing. (Mechanical Engineering)
This thesis is about the design of a suitable suspension system for a high-speed
machine. Experimental parametric analyses of some aspects of the design are
presented. Some rotordynamic aspects which are addressed include the following:
Undamped lateral critical speed analysis in order to determine the stiffness requirements for the suspension system of the machine.
Calculation of optimum damping for the rotating system and an experimental
evaluation of the amount of damping on the dynamic behaviour of the
machine.
Design of the suspension system from a dynamics point of view.
Design of a test rig to evaluate the performance of the squeeze-film
damper.
Experimental parametric evaluation of a squeeze-film damper without seals
or oil supply groove.