Calculation of the Critical Speed and Stability Analysis of Cryogenic Turboexpanders with Different Structures

A modularized code based on the Finite Element QZ (FEQZ) method is developed, for a better estimate of the critical speed and a more convenient method of rotor-dynamic stability analysis for a gas bearing high speed turboexpander rotor system with actual structure and application of a cryogenic turboexpander. This code is then validated by the experimental data of a gas bearing turboexpander, with a rotor diameter of 25mm and a rated speed of 106,400 rpm. With this code, four rotors with different structures, available to the turboexpander, are parametrically analyzed by the available speed range, vibration modes and logarithmic attenuation rate. The results suggest that the rotor with a structure of two thrust collars on the system exhibits a better performance in the designed conditions.