Nonlinear Dynamics in the Estimation of Rotor-Bearing Dynamic Properties in Large Hydro-Units*

This paper describes a method with which the nonlinear dynamic response and the natural features of rotor-bearing systems in large hydro-units can be estimated on a personal computer. The key step of this process is to estimate the dynamic eccentricity of the journal center in every guide bearing when the system is subjected to dynamic loads. As an example, the nonlinear dynamic responses, the natural frequencies and the critical speeds of the rotor-bearing system of a 240MW hydro-unit are calculated. The calculated dynamic responses agree well with the ones measured in the field.