Active Lubrication for Reducing Wear and Vibration: A combination of Fluid Power Control and Tribology

The use of fluid power to reduce and control rotor vibration in rotating machines is investigated. An active hybrid bearing is studied, whose main objective is to reduce wear and vibration between rotating and stationary machinery parts. By injecting pressurised oil into the oil film, through orifices machined in the bearing pads, one can alter the machine dynamic characteristics, thus enhancing its operational range.

A mathematical model of the rotor-bearing system, as well as of the hydraulic system, is presented. Numerical results of the system frequency response show good agreement with experiment, and simulations show the feasibility of controlling shaft vibration through this active device.