Rotordynamic Analysis of a Large Industrial Turbocompressor Including Finite Element Substructure Modeling

Abstract

A rotordynamic analysis of a large turbocompressor that models both the casing and supports along with the rotor-bearing system was performed. A 3D finite element model of the casing captures the intricate details of the casing and support structure. Two approaches are presented, including development of transfer functions of the casing and foundation, as well as a fully coupled rotor-casing-foundation model. The effect of bearing support compliance is captured, as well as the influence of casing modes on the rotor response. The first approach generates frequency response functions (FRFs) from the finite element case model at the bearing support locations. A high-order polynomial in numerator-denominator transfer function format is generated from a curve fit of the FRF. These transfer functions are then incorporated into the rotordynamics model. The second approach is a fully coupled rotor and casing model that is solved together. An unbalance response calculation is performed in both cases to predict the resulting rotor critical speeds and response of the casing modes. The effect of the compressor case and supports caused the second critical speed to drop to a value close to the operating speed and not compliant with the requirements of the American Petroleum Institute (API) specification 617 7th edition. A combination of rotor, journal bearing, casing, and support modifications resulted in a satisfactory and API compliant solution. The results of the fully coupled model validated the transfer function approach.