Dynamic Behavior Analysis of a Rotating Shaft with an Elliptical Breathing Surface Crack

Abstract

Abstract Purpose In this paper, dynamic behavior of a rotor system with an elliptical breathing crack that simulates the real shape of the crack front is investigated. Methods A finite element model of the cracked rotor system is developed. The crack breathing mechanism is modelled based on an improved breathing model which considers the inclination of the neutral axis of the cracked element cross-section during shaft rotation. Harmonic balance method is used to solve the equations of motion of the rotor system for steady-state response characteristics.  The effect of some parameters such as crack depth, crack shape factor and the spinning speed is investigated. Results and conclusions The results show that the unique whirl orbits behavior during passage through the subcritical speeds serve as a key indicator of crack presence in the shaft. The effects of the crack front curvature and the breathing model are revealed. The value of shape factor affects the whirl orbit characteristics such as size of the inner or outer loops and the amount by which the orbits rotate while crossing the subcritical speeds. The presented model considering the real crack front shape may contribute towards improved modelling of cracked rotors and better interpretation of measured vibration response.