Using a general purpose finite element approach to attain higher fidelity rotordynamic analyses

By utilizing a general purpose finite element (FE) code, the dynamic response of a rotor system was numerically studied in order to assess physical effects that are typically not taken into account using traditional rotordynamic codes. This included the allowance for disk flexibility as well as conducting a simultaneous heat transfer analysis that resulted in varying temperatures in the axial and radial directions. The numerical study utilized a generic, multi-disk model with a flexible hollow shaft. The Campbell diagrams and the mode shapes showed that neglecting any of the additional influences may cause errors regarding the predicted rotor dynamic response. By increasing the fidelity of the rotor model and accounting for the various effects, the slight signal modifications due to damage can be more easily recognized allowing for increased accuracy during rotor health monitoring.