Dynamic modeling of a dual clearance squeeze film damper - Part I: Test rig and dynamic model with one damper

This paper presents a description of a dual clearance squeeze film damper (SFD) test rig and a dynamic model of a single SFD. The purpose of a dual SFD is to provide protection at high levels of vibration, when conventional devices are no longer effective. An experimental facility was designed and built for the study of SFD behavior within mechanically controlled orbits. It can be used for both single and dual squeeze film dampers. In Part I of this paper, measured and computed responses are presented while operating as a single squeeze film device. Numerical and expert mental results for undamped cases are presented, i.e., when no oil film is present in the damper. Subsequently, the effects of the oil film are considered. Good agreement was obtained between experimental data and predictions.