Transient vibration control on coupled unit-plant structure of pumped storage power station based on MRD optimal layout

To address the recurring vibration in the integrated unit-plant structure system during the transitional phases of pumped storage power station (PSPS), the magnetorheological damper (MRD) is introduced in this paper to investigate transient vibration control within the coupled unit-plant structure (CUPS). Firstly, taking an actual PSPS as a case study, a unit regulation system model is developed based on one-dimensional transient flow theory, the method of characteristics (MOC), and the improved Suter transformation. Secondly, integrating the position function of unit shaft system, a nonlinear dynamic model of MRD is constructed, and the MRD damping force accounting for axial position parameters is derived. Additionally, on the basis of Lagrange method and finite element method, a mathematical model of unit shaft system and a finite element model for plant structure under the coupling effects of multiple vibration sources are established. Finally, the response to a sudden 10% load increase in generator condition of pumped storage unit is calculated through numerical simulation, and the effects of different damper position functions on the vibration characteristics of rotor and runner are analyzed to identify the optimal installation position for effective vibration control. The research results indicate that, optimizing the damper layout position enables the MRD to effectively reduce the vibration amplitude of rotor and runner, enhancing spectral characteristics. Furthermore, optimizing MRD positions significantly improves the vibration performance of plant structure. After the optimization of MRD positions, the vibration attenuation rate of plant structure accelerates, leading to a quicker stabilization, particularly noticeable in the generator floor. The findings of this study offer valuable engineering guidance for managing transient vibration in the integrated unit-plant system of PSPS.