The Numerical Analysis of Influence of Crankshaft Main Spindles Regeneration in Marine Engine on Stiffness and Eigenfrequency of the Crankshaft

Abstract

Engine operating conditions of the main propulsion, static in principle with steady-state rotation speed of the crankshaft and engine load, also work under dynamic load conditions. These conditions cause additional distortion of the crankshaft and changes in the operating conditions of the shaft bearings. However, the greatest impact on the long and trouble-free operation has proper engine maintenance. Variable operating conditions and engine operating errors, unfortunately, often cause damage to the main bearings of the crankshaft. Repair of the damaged main bearing spindles of the shaft involves performing the machining of the spindle surface then its re-hardening and selecting new bearing bushings with the appropriate bearing clearance. Trusting the engine manufacturer, there is no check of the influence of the machining of bearing spindles on the structural properties of the shaft. Therefore, the paper presents the model tests of the structure of medium-rev marine engine crankshaft aimed at determining the changes in the mechanical properties of the structure resulting from carrying out the regeneration of the main shaft spindles.