A new design of smart journal bearing based on GMM actuators

Purpose ‐ The purpose of this paper is to carry out a proof-of-concept experiment on positioning control of a smart journal bearing using giant magnetostrictive material (GMM)-based actuators. Design/methodology/approach ‐ In the system, a journal bearing integrated with GMM actuators is actively controlled using self-tuning P control under PID algorithm. Findings ‐ With the aid of GMM actuators, the positioning performance of journal bearing system is enhanced. The results demonstrate that the smart bearing system is practical and that GMM is an excellent material for driving function. Research limitations/implications ‐ The smart bearing system can be applied to other types of machinery if new calibrations are done on both bearing and actuators. Practical implications ‐ The results prove the possibility of applying the smart bearing system to demanding industrial usages (high load capacity, control ability and stability at high speeds). Originality/value ‐ The idea of using GMM for the smart journal bearing is original and has not been mentioned in past literature.