Comparison of Nonlinear Dynamics for Rotor Supported by Aerostatic Journal Bearings with Small-Hole and Micro-Hole Restrictors

Abstract

Aerostatic journal bearings with small-hole restrictors are widely adopted due to their superior stiffness, making them effective solutions to meet the growing demands for improved stability and higher rotational speeds in precision machinery. In this study, the nonlinear dynamic behaviors of a rigid rotor supported by aerostatic bearings with micro-hole and small-hole restrictors were systematically investigated and numerically compared. Experimental results indicate that aerostatic journal bearings with integrated micro-holes exhibit superior dynamic stability to their small-hole counterparts, with the threshold speed of half-frequency whirl increased by 10.5%. This research provides critical insights for optimizing the performance of aerostatic journal bearings in high-speed applications.