Local sensitivity analysis of steady-state response of rotors with rub-impact to parameters of rubbing interfaces

Local sensitivity analysis, which describes the relative importance of specific design parameters to the response of systems, is crucial for investigating dominant factors in optimal design. In this paper, local sensitivity analysis of the response of rotors with rub-impact to parameters of rubbing interfaces is carried out. The steady-state motion of the rotor is evaluated by a harmonic balance method and the sensitivity coefficients for every rotation speed over the speed range are derived analytically. Two classical models, including the Duffing oscillator and the gap model, are utilized to validate the accuracy and capability of the adopted methods and high accuracy is shown. Numerical investigations of sensitivities of steady-state response of rotors to parameters of rubbing interfaces are then carried out, based on a lumped Jeffcott rotor and a finite element model respectively. Conclusions are drawn that the response of rotors subjected to rubbing problems is more sensitive to initial clearance than other parameters of the applied friction model. With increase of initial gap, the response of rotors becomes more sensitive and the range of region subjected to rubimpact forces shrinks until the separation of rotor and stator.