Identification of dynamic bearing parameters: a review

A review of the experimental identification of bearings rotordynamic parameters is presented in this paper. Major emphasis is given to the vibration based identification methods and the review encompasses descriptions of experimental measurement techniques, mathematical modelling, parameter extraction algorithms and uncertainty in the estimates applied to a variety of bearings. The parameter extraction algorithms include the descriptions of governing equations of the rotor-bearing system and identification methods both in time and frequency domains. The identification techniques have been classified based on methods used to excite the system. The review includes a variety of bearings and similar components, which play an active link between the rotating and stationary parts. Based on the state of the art in the bearings identification, conclusions are made and future directions are suggested. A look-up table of a summary of papers on the experimental bearing dynamic identification is provided in the Appendix.