Analysis and optimization of the influence of bearing assembly parameters on the dynamic characteristics of shaft system

Purpose Inadequate support stiffness leads to motor vibrations exceeding the standard during the commissioning process. However, in-depth research on the parameters affecting bearing support stiffness remains incomplete. This paper aims to reveal the impact of the bearing support stiffness on the shaft system and explore the bearing assembly factors affecting the bearing support stiffness and optimization. Design/methodology/approach The finite-element method is adopted to calculate the bearing support stiffness accurately, with model validation conducted via a test rig. The significant factors affecting bearing housing stiffness are investigated by using the orthogonal experiment method. Finally, a multi-objective optimization strategy for bearing assembly parameters is proposed to improve the bearing support stiffness. Findings The bearing housing stiffness is anisotropic in vertical and horizontal directions, influencing the dynamics of shaft system. Bearing housing looseness can significantly reduce the bearing support stiffness. The contact angle and interference have a very significant effect on the bearing housing stiffness. Preferred combinations of bearing assembly parameters can be obtained by multi-objective genetic algorithms. Originality/value This study proposed a test determination method of bearing housing stiffness, showed that the phenomenon of bearing housing loosening in the test will reduce the bearing support stiffness and considered the respective phase anisotropy of the bearing housing stiffness. The influence of bearing support stiffness on the dynamic characteristics of the shaft system was studied, alongside the optimization of bearing assembly parameters affecting housing stiffness. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2024-0265/