Dynamic characteristics of cracked gear and three-dimensional crack propagation analysis

Abstract

The dynamic model and three-dimensional finite element analytical model of cracked gear structure are established respectively according to the cracked beam theory, and the dynamic characteristics (natural frequency, vibration shape) of cracked gear body are investigated. Further the influences of crack position and crack length on the dynamic characteristics of gear structure are simulated and discussed. On this basis, the fracture and damage of gear structure are investigated according to the theory of fracture mechanics. Using FRANC3D software, the three-dimensional (3D) propagation of crack at tooth root for involute gear is simulated, and stress intensity factor (SIF)s of semi-circular crack at tooth root including three types are analyzed, their variation laws are gained, then the expressions of SIFs are obtained by numerical fitting FEM results. Based on this, the 3D crack propagation path at tooth root is simulated and discussed, then, it is verified by comparing to experimental results, according to the mutation of the maximum SIF at crack tip, the fracture and damage of gear tooth are judged, and its work life also is predicted. These have very important value for damage monitoring and diagnosis of gear.