Compulsator rotordynamics and suspension design

High speed compulsator rotors utilizing high strength composite bandings pose unique problems from a rotor-dynamic standpoint. This article describes the basic design approach for rotordynamics used at The University of Texas at Austin Center for Electromechanics at (UT-CEM). As an example, the CCEML compulsator rotor-dynamic design is presented. The key considerations are seen to be: (1) mass and stiffness properties of the fully assembled rotor, (2) selection of rotor support bearings, (3) bearing supporting structure, (4) proper placement of rotor critical speeds, (5) adequate attenuation of rotor response at all speeds, and (6) bearing load capacity to react large discharge forces. Due to large mechanical and thermal shocks which occur during discharge, a primary design goal is to maximize tolerance to rotating imbalance. Another primary design goal is avoidance of destructive whirling instabilities which can occur with high speed rotors possessing large amounts of damping within the rotating assembly.