Study of a Novel Squeeze Film Damper and Vibration Generator

Abstract

A novel squeeze film damper and vibration generator (SFD&VG) is proposed as an option in the vibration control field. The SFD&VG can be used as an active squeeze film damper (ASFD) or as a vibration generator (vibrator), for unidimensional vibration damping or generation. The SFD&VG concept is connected with current research to improve a common industrial process—drilling of deep holes. The SFD&VG is based on the variable area of the lubricant film, which allows the development of a variable force, and a change in fluid film stiffness and damping. The analysis is initiated for an elementary configuration of the SFD&VG—the infinite width Rayleigh step case—and then it is developed for an advanced elliptical SFD&VG. The Reynolds equation is solved for both pure squeeze film effect which provides vibration damping, and pure hydrodynamic wedge effect which provides vibration generation. The theoretical part is continued with the SFD&VG dynamic simulation. The SFD&VG experimental device and vibration measurements, performed for the two defined regimes, ASFD and vibration generator, are presented. Finally, the experimental and theoretical results are briefly compared. [S0742-4787(00)05201-2]