Subsynchronous vibrations in rotating machinery can be detrimental, reaching amplitudes of vibration much greater than 1x. Subsynchronous vibrations are caused by many factors including fluid trapped in a hollow cavity. For trapped fluid, the system is excited when operating just above the first natural frequency, about 0.9X. A test rig was built to replicate the […]

The thrust collar test rig closely resembles some of the components in an integrally geared compressor. The rig was designed to study the dynamic coupling of two shafts through a thrust bearing element. Recent modifications allow for visualization of the thin film that balances a large load. The rig incorporates testing classic turbomachinery mechanisms like […]

The Whip and Whirl Test Rig was designed to operate up to 8000 rpm, reaching an instability state at about 5000 rpm. The rig was designed to evaluate the dynamic response of annular seals/bushing operating under oil whip and whirl conditions in a turbulent  flow regime (water lubrication). The in-between bearing design has a 4” […]