Investigation of the torsional stiffness of flexible disc coupling

• Published in: IOP conference series. Materials Science and Engineering 2017-08, Vol.233 (1), p.12052
• Main Authors: Buryy, A, Simonovsky, V, Obolonik, V
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adequacy; Finite element method; Mathematical models; Railroad car couplings; Resonant frequencies; Stiffness; Torque; Torsional vibration
• ISSN: 1757-8981; 1757-899X
• DOI: 10.1088/1757-899X/233/1/012052

Calculation of flexible coupling torsional stiffness is required when analyzing the torsional vibrations of the reciprocating machinery train. While having the lowest torsional stiffness of all the elements of the train, flexible coupling has a significant influence on the natural frequencies of torsional vibration. However, considering structural complexity of coupling, precise definition of its torsional stiffness is quite a difficult task. The paper presents a method for calculating the torsional stiffness of flexible disc coupling based on the study of its finite element model response under the action of torque. The analysis of the basic parameters that quantitatively and qualitatively affect the coupling torsional stiffness has been also provided. The results of the calculation as well as model adequacy, sufficient for practical application, have been confirmed at the experimental measurement of flexible disc coupling torsional stiffness. The obtained elastic characteristics (dependences of applied torque and torsional stiffness versus twist angle) are nonlinear in the initial stage of loading. This feature should be taken into account when creating reliable mathematical models of torsional vibrations of reciprocating machinery trains containing flexible disc couplings.