Mitigation of nonlinear rub-impact of a rotor system with magnetorheological damper

In this work, a new method of using a magnetorheological damper to improve the self-adaptive ability of a rotor system to rub-impact is developed. To validate the feasibility of this method, a finite element model of the rub-impact rotor system with magnetorheological damper is investigated. A revised formula describing the relationship between the yielding shear stress and magnetic field intensity is proposed. Focusing on the mitigation effect of magnetorheological damper on the nonlinear dynamic response of the rotor system, numerical simulation is conducted. The results show that magnetorheological damper has a considerable effect on the vibration and stability of a rub-impact rotor system. When a suitable current is applied, magnetorheological damper can effectively mitigate the vibration of the rotor system to prevent rub-impact. If contact of the rotor/stator is inevitable, magnetorheological damper can further stabilize heavy rub-impact to slight rub-impact by adjusting the current to an appropriate value. This research reveals the influence mechanisms of magnetorheological damper on normal and rub-impact rotor systems and is helpful for vibration control and fault self-healing of rotating machinery.