Advanced Vibration Tests for the Analysis of rotating Machines – AdViTAM

The purpose of the LabCom AdViTAM is to develop and to propose new testing techniques for rotating machines under extreme dynamic loads (earthquakes, shocks, etc…). At the design stage, predictions of their dynamic behavior have to be take into account such "Accelerated Stress Testing” (AST), in order to assure the machines integrity.

The Labcom is composed of LaMCoS, INSA Lyon, CNRS UMR 5259, which has great numerical simulation skills in the rotordynamics, and AVNIR Engineering, innovative SME that has proven experience in conducting controlled trials.

Using a numerical and experimental approach, the Labcom is a unique opportunity for creating and sharing such knowledge and expertise in order to serve the manufacturer’s needs.

The LabCom will develop modelling and simulation tools to analyze the impact of extreme loads on the integrity of rotating machines.

In parallel, testing devices and protocols will be built and carried out on the 6-axis shaker of the Equipex PHARE. This unique test facility in the national public research has large capacities and can generate extreme stresses.

The experimental/numerical approach should lead to the definition of AST and to their implementation. The ultimate goal of the partnership is to develop and validate new qualification procedures to bring answers to the transportation and energy needs and demands. .

The LabCom will provide answers on:
• The definition of AST and the updating of qualification standards that currently are only based on one or two simultaneous axes of excitation
• The new rotating machinery qualification methodologies including new architectures, increasing performance and reducing disturbances while guaranteeing their integrity and the user safety
• The robustness of the sensor-algorithm-actuator chain of smart machines.
• The reliability of the high-precision measurements, monitoring and diagnostic techniques
• Dynamic stability of on-board rotors mounted on hydrodynamic or active magnetic bearings subject to severe base excitations

The roadmap is divided according to the following actions all along the 36 months:

• Critical analysis of the relevance of environmental tests and current qualification
• Review and proposals for new types of AST. Consolidation and validation of previous thesis works; coherence with the expected new requirements by manufacturers of different areas of high technology. Development of a specific code and generic proof of concept
• Experimental validation of the dynamic behavior of the onboard system models, using the 6-axis shaker to generate excitations (sinus, shock, random and replication of records) controlled in closed loop.
• Evaluation of the relevance and the achievement of AST proposed. Scientific production of the predicted-measured results, and promotion of the test platform in the academic and industrial communities.

The contributions of LabCom will be sustained in particular by:

• strengthening of driven tests, activity which is strategic for AVNIR,
• an increase in AVNIR staff involved on this topics, ensuring the capacity to respond to industrial demands,
• transfer of AST skills to the LaMCoS, which makes its historical activities on Rotating Machinery stronger and more attractive for the industrial companies.