Dynamic Characteristics and Vibration Suppression of Aerostatic Tilting Pad Bearings Enhanced by Constrained Layer Damping

Aerostatic tilting pad bearings have attracted considerable attention for high-speed applications owing to their low friction and high rotational speed capability. However, their inherently low damping can result in insufficient vibration suppression and dynamic instability. In this study, a constrained layer damping (CLD) structure was incorporated into an aerostatic tilting pad bearing to improve its dynamic characteristics and vibration suppression capability. Flexible-hinge tilting pad bearings with different CLD configurations were developed, and the effects of constrained layer thickness and outer-ring connection on the bearing stiffness and damping characteristics were investigated. Dynamic excitation tests were conducted to identify the equivalent dynamic stiffness and damping coefficients, followed by rotor-bearing system experiments to evaluate the vibration response under different operating conditions. The results reveal the influence of CLD structural parameters on the stiffness–damping characteristics. The vibration tests further verify the effectiveness of the different CLD configurations in regulating the dynamic response of the bearing. The findings provide a basis for the structural design and vibration control of CLD-enhanced aerostatic tilting pad bearings.