LAUSR

Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop a normal contact stiffness (NCS) model among three disks of the assembled rotor system, which systematically considers the friction coefficient, the asperities interaction and the elastoplastic contact regime. Design/methodology/approach Based on the revised fractal theory, considering the friction effect, the elastoplastic contact regime and the asperities interaction in a simple way, the total NCS among three disks of the rod-fastening rotor bearing system is established. Effects of fractal dimension and roughness, friction coefficient, asperities interaction and material properties on the normal stiffness are investigated by simulations and the relevant comparisons are given for examining the reasonability of the proposed model. Findings NCS will decrease when asperities interaction and friction are included. As the load increases, the influences of asperities interaction and friction on stiffness become serious. NCS will be enhanced when the elastoplastic regime is considered. Originality/value A comprehensive NCS model is developed. It provides a theoretical basis for the modeling of the NCS for multi-interfaces.