Normal-force dependant friction in centrifugal pendulum vibration absorbers: Simulation and experimental investigations

A model of the normal-force dependant friction loss between the rotor and pendula is developed for bifilar centrifugal pendulum vibration absorbers (CPVAs). The normal-force is dominantly dependant on the rotor rotational velocity but also dependant on the pendulum path. Simulation results of the pendulum with the proposed normal-force friction model agree well with novel experimental results. Order-response simulations of the rotor-CPVA model with the proposed friction model reveal accuracy improvements on the prediction of the rotor oscillation amplitude at different rotational velocities in comparison to existing friction formulations. Derivation of the equations of motion of the rotor-CPVA is performed by Kane's method and solved numerically. The developed experimental setup is used to validate the model parameters such as friction coefficients, path parameters and relative pendulum rotation without necessitating a special test-apparatus other than standard vibration measurement equipment. CPVAs are commonly used to reduce torsional vibration created by reciprocating engines. To reduce emissions, heavy-duty vehicles manufactures are downsizing and downspeeding the combustion engine while maintaining the power output. Unfortunately, this gives rise to increased torsional vibration in the powertrain. The CPVA is a device that can reduce the torsional vibration and thus help fulfill environmental goals. (C) 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.