CONTENTS

Introduction To Fluid Induced Instability

Rotor and fluid interaction
Causes of fluid instability
Mode Of Instability
Whirl
Whip
Symptoms Of Fluid Induced Instability
Shaft Lift Plot
Orbit Plot
Waterfall Plot
Locating The Source Of Instability
Eliminating Fluid Induced Instability

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Introduction To Fluid Induced Instability

Rotor and fluid interaction

In rotating machinery the rotor interact with the working fluid
The fluid is usually contained between two enclosed concentric cylinder i.e.
shaft and bearing
Normally when the rotor is in motion it will have as stable position on top of oil
film wedge
This equilibrium position will be maintained as long as there is no disturbance
on the system

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Introduction To Fluid Induced Instability

Fluid-induced instability is a type of vibration that results from the rotors

interaction with a surrounding fluid in an enclosed space i.e. inside a bearing or
seal. Under this condition the rotor becomes unstable and this can lead to a rub
between the rotor and other parts such as stator, bearings and seals

Causes of fluid induced instability

Excessive bearing wear or clearance
Large clearances between the bearing and
shaft
Change in oil properties (shear viscosity)
An increase or decrease in oil pressure or oil
temperature
Uneven loading and misalignment of the shaft
Fluid leakage in the seals

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Figure 1: Rotor Orbit
MODE OF INSTABILITY

Rotating Machinery Mass Unbalance

It is the uneven distribution of mass around the axis of rotation
During this condition the rotor mass center (axis of inertia) and geometric
center (axis of rotation) are not aligned.

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SYMPTOMS OF FLUID INDUCED INSTABILITY

Rotating Machinery Mass Unbalance

It is the uneven distribution of mass around the axis of rotation
During this condition the rotor mass center (axis of inertia) and geometric
center (axis of rotation) are not aligned.

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LOCATING THE SOURCE OF INSTABILITY

Rotating Machinery Mass Unbalance

It is the uneven distribution of mass around the axis of rotation
During this condition the rotor mass center (axis of inertia) and geometric
center (axis of rotation) are not aligned.

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ELIMINATING FLUID INDUCED INSTABILITY

Rotating Machinery Mass Unbalance

It is the uneven distribution of mass around the axis of rotation
During this condition the rotor mass center (axis of inertia) and geometric
center (axis of rotation) are not aligned.

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 END