Balancing Overview

A Basic Guide to Balancing

Theory and Terminology
Owner Reference Information
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 Balancing Overview
A Basic Guide to Balancing
Theory and Terminology

Technical Manual Identification:

PD-BO
Issue Date: 2007-06-27
 © 2007 American Hofmann Corporation
All Rights Reserved.

This publication contains a general overview of balancing theory, which includes

information derived from various American Hofmann Corporation publications,
especially Applied Balancing Theory for Hard Disk Drives and Similar
Application (author Larry C. Anderson, 1996). Additional information is based
on ISO 1940/1-1986 (E) standard, Mechanical vibration – Balance quality requirements
of rigid rotors – Part 1: Determination of permissible residual unbalance.
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Contents
Section and Title Page
1 Balancing Overview.......................................................................................1-1
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 1-1
Rotor Characteristics .................................................................................................. 1-2
Axis and Center of Mass....................................................................................... 1-2
Types of Rotor Unbalance .................................................................................... 1-3
Factors that Influence Unbalance ............................................................................... 1-5
Balancing Speed.................................................................................................... 1-5
Rotational Forces .................................................................................................. 1-5
Resonance ............................................................................................................. 1-6
Unbalance Calculation ............................................................................................... 1-7
2 Balancing Questions and Answers ...............................................................2-1
3 ISO Balance Quality Grades ........................................................................3-1
4 Unbalance Unit Conversion Chart...............................................................4-1
5 Glossary..................................................................................................................... 5-1

Contents i
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Notes:

ii Contents
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Unbalance
1
Introduction
Unbalance is the uneven distribution of mass about the axis of rotation of a rotating body
(rotor). This causes force at the bearings, resulting in vibration. Excessive vibration can
be damaging to a machine (for example, reduce bearing life) and detrimental to an
operating system (for example, put it out of calibration).
The cause of unbalance can be either a fixed source (non-symmetrical design or
manufacture) or a variable source (operational factors, such as distortion or shifting of
components during rotation).
A perfectly balanced rotor is practically impossible. However, each machine or rotor has
a tolerance value that defines an acceptable amount of vibration – that is, an amount that
does not negatively effect equipment or production. Balancing is the procedure to reduce
the unbalance level to the defined tolerance or an equivalent level defined by a standard.
To identify and correct unbalance, you need to know unbalance magnitude (U), which is
the result of an unbalance mass (m) located at a specific radius (r): U = m x r.
Additionally, you need to know the location. The location is defined by both the angular
location from a zero reference location, and the axial location of the unbalance relative to
the support bearings (refer to Figure 1-1).
For some rotors, such as discs, a single unbalance correction is adequate. Wider and
larger rotors require two or more corrections at separate axial locations to correct the
effects of multiple unbalances.
Note
Unbalance measurement checks the vibration signal at the rotational speed, and
provides results as both the amount and the angle related to a reference. Vibration
measurement checks frequencies (typically 10 – 1000 Hz).

0° r m = mass
r= radius
315°
45°
Unbalance (U)
m
located at at an
angle of 45°
270°
90°

225° Figure -11. Unbalance Correction Factors

135°
180°

Unbalance 1-1
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

Rotor Characteristics
Axis and Center of Mass
A rotor is an object that rotates. It contains two stationary points on its outside surface,
which are connected by a line called the axis of rotation. The following components
define the spinning of each rotor:
• Shaft axis – Normally the rotor has a shaft with bearings to support it. In free space,
the rotor would tend to spin about its center of mass, but it is constrained by the
bearings. The shaft axis of the rotor (refer to Figure 1-2) is defined by the centerlines
of the support bearings. The shaft axis may or may not contain the center of mass.
Parts are designed to rotate about the shaft axis of a rotor, which is also the rotational
axis.
• Principal axis – This axis always includes the center of gravity (or mass center) of
the part. By definition the mass of the rotor is evenly distributed about the principal
axis.
• Center of mass – This is generally considered to be at the geometric center of an
object. In fact the center of mass, or inertia, is the location of symmetric mass
distribution and is not the same as the location of the geometric center.
A rotor always attempts to rotate about its principal axis. However, it is constrained by
the support bearings, which force it to rotate about the shaft axis. Displacement of these
two axes causes bearing loads and vibration that are directly proportional to
misalignment. Figure 1-2 is an exaggerated illustration of how the mass of a disc-type
rotor can be offset on the shaft axis. Notice that the disc is rotating around the shaft axis,
but ideally the principal axis is the true center.
In an unbalanced rotor, the principal axis is displaced from the shaft axis. In a balanced
rotor, the principal axis coincides with the shaft axis (see Figure 1-3).
A rotor or rotor assembly is composed of components that have both mass and
flexibility, which absorb and dissipate energy when subjected to internal disturbances.
The result is a unique pattern of motions called the rotor response. The rotor response at
operating speed directly effects its sensitivity to unbalance. Speeds close to resonant
frequencies require much closer balance tolerances because of increased rotor response
characteristics. (Refer to the Resonant Frequency description in this section.)

Center of Mass
Center of Mass

Central Shaft Axis Central

Principle Axis Principle Axis
Shaft Axis

Figure 1-2. Unbalanced Rotor, Single Plane Figure 1-3. Balanced Rotor, Single Plane

1-2 Unbalance
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Types of Rotor Unbalance

Static unbalance is classified as single-plane unbalance. As shown in Figure 1-4, the
principal axis is displaced parallel to the shaft axis. Static unbalance is represented by a
single vector quantity. It is corrected by a single correction mass applied opposite to the
unbalance location and in the axial plane of the mass center of the rotor. When there is no
way to add (or remove) mass in the same plane as the unbalance, the correction can be
split into two equal corrections at the ends of the rotor. Static unbalance can be detected
by non-rotational type of equipment
Couple unbalance is a condition in which the principle axis intersects with the shaft axis
at the center of mass, so there is no static unbalance. However, it is inclined at an angle to
the bearing axis, as shown in Figure 1-4. Couple unbalance (also called moment
unbalance) has equal unbalances, spaced 180° apart at opposite ends of the rotor. When
this rotor spins, it vibrates with a twisting motion. Couple unbalance requires two
corrections (cannot be corrected in one plane).
Dynamic unbalance is basically a combination of static and couple unbalance. The
central principal axis of inertia is neither parallel to nor intersects the shaft axis at the
center of mass (refer to Figure 1-4). Dynamic unbalance can only be measured when the
part is rotating, and can only be corrected in two or more planes.
Quasi-static unbalance is a rare situation in which there is a specific combination of
static and couple unbalance. The angular position of one couple component coincides
with the angular position of the static unbalance. If the unbalance axial location can be
used for correction, then a single correction is possible. Otherwise, it must be treated the
same as dynamic unbalance. In some production situations, correction can be made at a
single plane close enough to the source of the unbalance to enable efficient balancing
correction to within the required tolerance (for example, disk drives with one or two
platters; refer to Figure 1-5).
Multi-plane balancing is sometimes required when there is insufficient material or space
available to make all the required unbalance corrections. In this case, a pre-balance
operation in one or two auxiliary planes precedes final balancing. In some applications
where the rotors are flexible, multi-plane balancing is used to minimize the rotor’s
internal bending stresses.

Unbalance 1-3
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

Static Unbalance
Unbalance Central Characteristics of unbalance:
Principal Axis y Central Principal Axis parallel to
Shaft Shaft Axis
Axis y Single unbalance location (1 plane)

Couple Unbalance Characteristics of unbalance:

Central
Principal Axis y Central Principal Axis inclined at angle
(not parallel) to Shaft Axis
Shaft
y Central Principal Axis intersects Shaft
Axis
Axis at center of mass
y Equal unbalances spaced 180° apart
Center of Mass at opposite ends of rotor (2 planes)

Dynamic Unbalance Characteristics of unbalance:

Central
Principal Axis y Central Principal Axis inclined at angle
(not parallel) to Shaft Axis
Shaft
y Central Principal Axis does not intersect
Axis
Shaft Axis
y Unbalance measured in 2 planes (left &
right or upper & lower)

Figure 1-4. Static, Couple, and Dynamic Unbalance

Shaft Axis

Central
Principle Axis

Figure 1-5. Quasi-Static Unbalance

1-4 Unbalance
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Factors that Influence Unbalance

Balancing Speed
Rotor unbalance is caused by its mass distribution about the bearing axis, so does not
change with speed. The force generated by the unbalance increases with the square of the
rotational speed change. Therefore, the balance tolerance has to be determined for the
maximum operating speed of the rotor.
The operating speed and bearing forces determine the bearing life. Therefore, unbalance
must be limited to achieve the required operating lifetime.
Usually, you should balance a rotor at the lowest practical speed, not at operating speed,
for the following reasons:
• Faster speeds require a longer time to ramp up and ramp down.
• Faster speeds require stronger, stiffer tooling arrangements and tighter clamping of the
drive housing, increasing the risk of drive housing distortion or damage.
• Lower speeds assure safety for the operator and require less elaborate machine guards.
However, balancing machine transducers and instrumentation perform more accurately
with increasing speed because they receive greater signal levels from the increase in
centrifugal force (refer to Rotational Forces). The requirements of tooling design,
balance tolerance, cycle time, and machine guarding all interact when determining the
optimum balancing speed.

Rotational Forces
Rotational motion is different from straight-line motion. For example, acceleration of an
automobile stops when it reaches a constant speed. Turning a corner causes an instant
acceleration, even if the speed does not change. Thus, acceleration is generated through
the vehicle tires.
An unbalanced rotor undergoes constant acceleration through the bearings because the
direction of the force is constantly changing. The velocity caused by the unbalance is
proportional to the speed (rpm) and the acceleration is proportional to the rate of change
of the velocity (rpm2).
There are two “forces” associated with rotational (circular) motion: centrifugal and
centripetal.
Centripetal force is a center-seeking force that causes an object to move in a circular
path. For example, suppose a ball is tied to a string and swung around in a circle at a
constant angular velocity (refer to Figure 1-6). The ball moves in a circular path because
of the string, which has a fixed length. The tension in the string applies a centripetal force
to the ball. Centrifugal force is not really a “force,” but the tendency of an object to
move in a straight line. That tendency produces a center-fleeing force that is the equal
and opposite reaction to centripetal force, pulling on the object holding the string.
When measuring unbalance in a rotating rotor, we have the same forces. If the rotor were
spinning in free space, it would rotate about its center of mass. In the balancing machine,
the rotor spins around the geometric centers of the support bearings. Therefore, it actually
measures the outward force caused by the bearing reaction of the unbalance – in other
words, centrifugal force.

Unbalance 1-5
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

Centrifugal force is defined by three factors: mass (volume), radius (distance), and
velocity (speed). A greater mass and longer string produces a greater force, and a faster
speed produces greater force proportional to the square of the speed.
Unbalance is independent of rotational speed. At zero speed, the unbalance has no effect
on the rotor. However, if the rotor is rotated, the unbalance exerts a centrifugal force,
causing vibration that become more intense as the speed increases.

r m

m = mass of ball Centripetal Force

v = velocity (speed) mv2
of ball Centrifugal ( r )
r = radius of circle (Reaction) Force
mv2
( r )
by ball
aveled
Path tr

Figure 1-6. Forces on a Rotating Body

Resonance
Every mechanical object has three properties:
• Mass = volume × density of material.
• Stiffness depends on the elasticity of the material.
• Damping is a measure of the ability of the system to dissipate vibratory energy.
The natural frequency is directly proportional to the stiffness and inversely proportional
to the mass. This is the frequency at which an object tends to self-vibrate when “rung” by
an impact.
Materials such as soft rubber have a high level of damping and a low stiffness. Therefore,
they tend to absorb and dissipate vibration. Most hard materials have a higher stiffness
and a lower level of damping. The damping factor determines the rate of energy loss to
the surroundings. It is a non-linear parameter and changes with speed. For a given
structure, there is a frequency where the damping factor approaches zero and, absorbing
very little vibration energy.
A resonance is a condition in a structure in which the frequency of a vibratory force, such
as mass unbalance, is equal to a natural frequency of the system. If the vibratory force is
caused by a rotating part, the resonance is called a critical speed. Resonance and critical
speeds are governed by natural frequencies, damping, and vibratory forces.
A rotational assembly with any unbalance (the vibration exciter) produces a vibratory
force as it is rotated. This is called the excitation frequency. When the natural frequency
and the excitation frequency coincide, a state of resonance occurs. As rotational speed
approaches the resonant frequency, the effects of the force increases. If the speed is close
to the resonant frequency, a very low level of unbalance can still generate unacceptable
vibration amplitudes.

1-6 Unbalance
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

When rotational speed is below the resonant frequency, the support structure vibrates
directly with the exciting force (phase shift = 0º ). As the speed increases nearer to
resonance, the phase begins to shift there is a 90º phase shift at resonant frequency. As
the rotational speed continues to increase, the phase continues to change until it reaches
opposition (phase shift = 180º)
For accurate balancing, you must avoid speeds close to resonance. This is because a small
speed change can cause a large change of both the amount and the angle of the measured
signal, producing incorrect readings.

Unbalance Calculation
The various unbalance forces can be calculated using the following formulas (refer to
Figure 1-7.

S
F U = M × e or U = M × r
e F = U × ω2
ω = 2 × π × n/60
M
m e = center of gravity eccentricity
F = centrifugal force
M = rotor mass
m = unbalance mass
S = rotor mass center of gravity
ω
U = unbalance
ω = angular velocity
r
r = distance between unbalance mass
center of gravity & axis of rotation

Figure 1-7. Unbalance Calculation Factors

Unbalance 1-7
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

User Notes:

1-8 Unbalance
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Balancing Questions and

2 Answers

This section contains common questions (Q) and answers (A) about balancing, which
may help you understand and solve some of the most common balancing problems. Other
balancing problems, whether it is with machine operation or application solutions, may
require you to contact Hofmann:
• Customer Service:
Tel: +1.434.522.0358
Email: Service.Dept@hofmann-global.com
• Technical Assistance:
Tel: +1.434.522.0352
Email: TechSupport@hofmann-global.com

Q. I have several balancing machines, and get different unbalance amounts when I place
the same part (being balanced) in each machine.
A. The setup and calibration of each balancing machine is very important. You must use
the same calibration part and set up each machine exactly the same way to form a
reference.

Q. I balanced a part very low and placed 30 mg at the zero mark, then adjusted the
display to read 30 mg. Next, I placed the weight at 90º, and the balancing machine
read 42 mg. Why do I get a different reading at a different angle?
A. First, this indicates that the part still has a residual unbalance. You must balance the
part low enough so that the residual does not effect the reference weight amount.

Q. I have a two-plane balancing system. I am able to correct on both sides of the part.
When I correct on the left side, the right side also changes. However, when I correct
on the right, the left remains the same.
A. This indicates cross-effect and very little plane separation. Try setting up the part
again and optimize the dimensions for best plane separation.

Q. When the part is being measured, the angle keeps changing and bouncing all over the
place.
A. Three things are common for this type problem:
1. The tooling is not transferring the signal to the pickups. Check the tooling for
proper alignment and loose screws.
2. If only one part displays this type of problem, check the part for loose components
or maybe bad bearings.
3. The unbalance of the part may be so low that a stable reading is difficult.

Balancing Questions and Answers 2-1

Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

Q. Even though the part has been balanced to below tolerance, it vibrates furiously
during the spin-up and spin-down of a measuring cycle, but seems okay at operating
speed.
A. The part may be going through resonance during the spin-up/spin-down cycle. Try
clamping different components of the part to see if the vibration decreases. If this has
no effect, you may have to run a Bode plot to analyze what is causing the problem.

Q. The part that I am balancing has six platters. How can I balance the left plane (bottom
of the part) since there is no access to the part?
A. In a drive with only one plane access, you can only correct for static unbalance.
However you can check for two plane unbalance or reduce the couple by reducing the
static unbalance.

2-2 Balancing Questions and Answers

Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

ISO Balance Quality Grades

3
The following chart provides balance quality grades (G) based on the ISO 1940/1-1986
(E) standard, Mechanical vibration – Balance quality requirements of rigid rotors – Part
1: Determination of permissible residual unbalance. For a more detailed explanation of
balance quality grades, refer to that standard.

Balance Quality Rotor Types – General Examples

Grade (G)
1
4000 Crankshaft/drives of rigidly mounted slow marine diesel engines with uneven
number of cylinders.

1600 Crankshaft/drives of rigidly mounted large 2-cylinder engines.

630 Crankshaft/drives of rigidly mounted large 4-cycle engines.

Crankshaft/drives of elastically mounted marine diesel engines.

2
250 Crankshaft/drives of rigidly mounted fast 4-cylinder diesel engines.

2
100 Crankshaft/drives of fast diesel engines with 6 or more cylinders.
3
Complete engines (gasoline or diesel) for cars, trucks, and locomotives.

40 Car wheels, wheel rims, wheel sets, drive shafts.

Crankshaft/drives of elastically mounted fast 4-cycle engines (gasoline or
2
diesel) with 6 or more cylinders.
Crankshaft drives of engines for cars, trucks, and locomotives.

16 Drive shafts (propeller shafts, cardan shafts) with special requirements.

Parts of crushing machines.
Parts of agricultural machinery.
Individual components of engines (gasoline or diesel) for cars, trucks, and
locomotives.
Crankshaft /drives of engines with 6 or more cylinders under special
requirements.

6.3 Parts or process plant machines.

Marine main turbine gears (merchant service).
Centrifuge drums.
Paper machinery rolls: print rolls.
Fans.
Assembled aircraft gas turbine rotors.

ISO Balance Quality Grades 3-1

Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

Balance Quality Rotor Types – General Examples

Grade (G)
Flywheels.
Pump impellers.
Machine-tool and general machinery parts.
Medium and large electrical armatures (of electric motors having at least 80
mm shaft height) without special requirements.
Small electric armatures, often mass-produced, in vibration-insensitive
applications and/or with vibration-isolating mountings.
Individual components of engines under special requirements.

2.5 Gas and steam turbines, including marine main turbines (merchant service).
Rigid turbo-generator rotors.
Computer memory drums and discs.
Turbo-compressors.
Machine-tool drives.
Medium and large electrical armatures with special requirements.
Small electrical armatures not qualifying for one or both of the conditions
specified for small electric armatures of balance quality grade G6.3.
Turbine-driven pumps.

1 Tape recorder and phonograph (gramophone) drives.

Grinding-machine drives.
Small electrical armatures with special requirements.

0.4 Spindles, discs, and armatures of precision grinders.

Gyroscopes.

1
A crankshaft/drive is an assembly that includes a crankshaft, flywheel, clutch, pulley, vibration
damper, rotating portion of connecting rod, and such.
2
For the purposes of ISO-1940/1, slow diesel engines are those with a piston velocity of less than
9 m/s; fast diesel engines are those with a piston velocity of greater than 9 m/s.
3
In complete engines, the rotor mass equals the sum of all masses belonging to the
crankshaft/drive described in note 1 above.

3-2 ISO Balance Quality Grades

Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Unbalance Unit Conversion

4 Chart
The following conversion chart and formulas may be a useful reference for converting
unbalance units during setup of software parameters.

To mg gram ounce gr-mm gr-in oz-in

From
.001 × r .001 × r .0000353 × r
mg 1 .001 .0000353
(mm) (in) (in)

.0353 × r
gram 1000 1 .0353 r (mm) r (in)
(in)

28.35 × r 28.35 × r
ounce 28350 28.35 1 r (in)
(mm) (in)

1000/r 1/r .0353/r

gr-mm 1 .0394 .00139
(mm) (mm) (mm)

1000/r 1/r .0353/r

gr-in 25.4 1 .0353
(in) (in) (in)

28350/r 28.35/r 1/r

oz-in 719.6 28.35 1
(in) (in) (in)

r = radius (in. or mm)

Multiply by number in box to convert From units to To units.
r (mm) = 25.4 × r (in.)
r (in) = .0394 × r (mm)
unbalance = mass × radius
displacement = unbalance/weight of rotor
tolerance = (.375 × G × W)/N
force (lb) = 1.67 × (N/1000)2 × Uoz-in.
G = ISO 1940 Quality Grade
N = measurement rpm
W grams ⇒ tolerance in gr-in.
W ounces ⇒ tolerance in oz-in.

Unbalance Units Conversion Chart 4-1

Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

User Notes:

4-2 Unbalance Unit Conversion Chart

Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

Balancing Glossary
5
This glossary contains brief definitions of some of the balancing and machine terms used
by the balancing industry.

–A–
ac (alternating current) – An electrical current and voltage that reverses its direction at
a regular interval (changes in a sinusoidal pattern as a function of time). Electrical power
is normally distributed at 60 Hz or 50 Hz.
acceleration – The rate at which something increases its velocity. Acceleration is
usually measured in units of velocity change for each unit of time.
accelerometer – Vibration pickup or sensor that measures the rate of change of velocity
(amplitude multiplied by the square of the frequency).
accuracy – How close a measurement is to the absolute quantity.
a/d – Analog-to-digital conversion.
adapter – A part that connects two devices or systems, physically or electrically, and
enables them to work together.
alarm (drive) – An indication that the instrumentation software has detected a critical
condition in the machine operation. The alarm normally shuts down the machine,
requiring a reset before restarting.
alignment – A condition where the axis or center lines of two shafts are in line or
coaxial.
ambient – Normal or current environmental conditions.
amount (of unbalance) – The quantitative measure of unbalance in a rotor (referred to a
plane), without referring to its angular position. It is obtained by taking the product of the
unbalance mass and the distance of its center of gravity from the shaft axis.
angle (of unbalance) – The polar angle at which an unbalance mass is located, (referring
to a polar coordinate system, which is fixed in a plane perpendicular to the shaft axis and
rotating with the rotor).
ARP – Aerospace Recommended Practice.
automatic mode – The operating mode in which the machine operates without human
intervention.
axial correction – When the drill of a balancing station corrects unbalance by drilling
inline with the axis of rotation.

Glossary 5-1
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

–B–
balancing– A procedure by which the mass distribution of a rotor is checked and, if
necessary, adjusted to ensure that the vibration of the journals and/or forces on the
bearings (at a frequency corresponding to the service speed) are within specified limits.
balancing machine – A machine that provides a measure of unbalance in a rotor, and
that can be used for adjusting the mass distribution of that rotor to reduce the unbalance.
balancing putty – Putty used to add weight to the rotor during calibration.
balancing quality grade – (Represented as “G.”) An expression of the potential for
damage caused by unbalance. Based on the ISO 1940 Balance Quality Grade standard,
the numerical value of G is equal to the vibration velocity mm/sec of a freely suspended
rotor.
balancing system – A complete balancing machine that can measure, correct, and check
the unbalance of the rotor, typically with computer controls.
baseplate – The surface to which the feet of a machine are attached.
bearing – A part that supports a journal and in which the journal revolves.
belt drive – In a balancing machine, a mechanical drive consisting of a motor, belt, and
pulleys. When the motor runs, it turns the belt, which is in contact with the rotor,
spinning the rotor.
bias – Compensation for a characteristic that does not fit in the normal model, and would
cause miscalculation or unbalance if not considered in a calculation or operation.
BNC – Bayonet nut connector. A type of connector used with coaxial cables. The basic
BNC connector is a male type mounted at each end of a cable. It has a center pin
connected to the center cable conductor and a metal tube connected to the outer cable
shield. A rotating ring outside the tube locks the cable to any female connector.
Commonly used with the RG-58 A/U cable for the 10Base-2 Ethernet system.
Bode plot – The magnitude of vibration at 1´ shaft speed, also its phase relative to shaft
position, both plotted against running speed.
BOM (bills of materials) – List of materials needed in the production of parts,
assemblies, and so forth.

5-2 Glossary
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

–C–
calibration – In balancing, the process of adjusting a machine so that in a given rotor or
essentially identical rotors, the unbalance indicators read in terms of selected correction
units in specified correction planes; it may require adjustment for angular location.
ccw – See counterclockwise.
CE - Conformité Européenne (European conformity). Conformity with the
essential health and safety requirements set out in European Directives.
clockwise – (cw). Rotation to the right like the direction of clock hands
collet – A tool holding device designed for maximum holding capacity and high
accuracy. Each tooling size requires a separate collet.
command – A computer term for a function that has an immediate effect. In Windows, a
menu command is a function (a menu item) that initiates an action when selected (such as
opening a window or other menu).
compensate – To offset an error, defect, or undesired effect.
compressed air – Industrial process air available for control and process uses at 30 to
150 pounds per square inch (psi).
configure – To select specific options, which can be hardware adjustments and software
parameters, to affect the operation of a machine or system.
commissioning – The process of setting up and checking the balancing systems, then
verifying all system functions after installation.
concentric – A shared center between two or more objects.
connection speed – (Communications.) The rate that data is transferred to and from a
communications device. Typically, this is the same as modem speed, which is measured
in baud.
contract balancing – Industrial Balancing Services provided by a company on an as-
needed basis, either production balancing or rotor unbalance evaluation.
correction plane – A plane perpendicular to the shaft axis of a rotor in which correction
for unbalance is made.
counterclockwise – (ccw). Rotation to the left like the opposite direction of clock hands.
couple unbalance – Unbalance that displaces the principal axis of inertia from the shaft
axis and intersects the shaft axis at the center of gravity. This type of unbalance is caused
by two unbalances that are equal in amount and are exactly 180 degrees of out of phase.
cross-effect – When changes in one plane (such as adding or removing weight) causes
changes in the other plane. This cross-effect is expressed in percentage. The better the
plane separation, the smaller the cross-effect.
cw – See clockwise.

Glossary 5-3
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

–D–
dc (direct current) – An electrical current that flows in only one direction at a constant
rate, such as a battery current.
deceleration – The rate at which something decreases its velocity.
detector – A device to determine when a certain condition has been met.
diameter – The measurement of a line that passes from one side of a circle to the other
side of the circle, through the center point.
DIN connector – DIN is short for Deutsches Insitut für Normung eV, the standards -
setting organization for Germany. A DIN connector conforms to one of the many
standards defined by DIN. DIN connectors are used widely in personal computers.
drill web, drill bit web – The flat section of the point of the drill bit.
drive (electronic) – An electronic device that translates a given command from a motion
controller into the electrical current that turns a motor.
drive (mechanical) – A mechanical device that moves an object, such as spinning a
rotor.
drive alarm – See alarm.
drive warning – See warning.
dynamic unbalance – That condition of unbalance in which the central principal axis is
not coincident with the shaft axis.

–E–
encoder – A sensor or transducer for converting rotary motion or position to a series of
electronic pulses.
end drive – In a balancing machine, a mechanical drive consisting of a motor attached
to a shaft, which is attached to the end of the rotor. When the motor is on, it turns the
shaft, spinning the rotor.
emergency stop – See E-stop.
Ethernet – An open networking standard, with a 10/100 MB baud collision-avoidance/
collision-detection system, used to link or more computers together. Conforms to the
IEEE 802.3 standard.
E-stop – Emergency-stop. A stop function that overrides all other functions and
operations in all modes and that removes power from machine actuators. Machine reset
cannot initiate a restart until E-stop is turned off.

5-4 Glossary
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

–F–
feed – The linear movement towards the work of a mill unit.
flag – A software or hardware mark that signals a particular condition or status when it is
turned on (set).
flash memory – A read-write, non-volatile computer memory chip that retains its data
when the power is turned off. It can be electronically erased and reprogrammed while
still within a printed circuit board.
flow control – (Communications.) An action that regulates the transfer of information
between a sender and a receiver. Most often needed when a speed differential exists
between sender and receiver.
formula – An equation expressing a definite fixed relationship between certain
quantities.
foundation – The surface on which the machine baseplate is mounted.
frequency – The repetition rate of a periodic vibration per unit of time. Frequency can
be expressed as Hz (cycles per second); cpm (cycles per minute), or ts (orders cycles per
shaft turning speed).

–G–
ganged – Arranged or assembled into a group, as for simultaneous operation or
production. For example, a two-ganged cutter consists of two cutters assembled together.
gauge (or gage) – A measuring device.
Gauge (or Gage) R and R – A statistical analysis of reproducibility and repeatability of
an operation on a measuring device (gage). Gauge repeatability is the variation obtained
from one gauge and one operator when measuring the same part several times. Gauge
reproducibility is the difference in the average of the measurements made by different
operators using the same gauge when measuring the same part.
gripper – An end device designed for seizing and holding.

–H–
hard-bearing balancer – A balancing machine that spins the rotor on rigid bearings to
measure force, not displacement, to determine unbalance.
HG Electronic Measuring Instrument – (HG Electronic) A Hofmann visually driven
operator interface and controller for measuring rotor unbalance. Display options enable
you to view unbalance in analog, digital, and graphical formats. Using only two buttons
and simple icons, you can easily navigate the logically designed operation and
maintenance screens, and select preferred setup options.
horizontal balancer – A balancing machine that measures unbalance on planes
positioned horizontally (for two-plane measurement, a left plane and a right plane).
Hz – Abbreviation for hertz, a measure of frequency in cycles per second. The name is
in honor of Heinrich Hertz, an early German investigator of radio wave transmission.

Glossary 5-5
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

–I–
IEC – International Electrotechnical Commission. An international standards
organization dealing with electrical, electronic and related technologies. Some of its
standards are developed jointly with ISO.
index – The starting point for a data set.
indexer – An electronic unit that converts high-level commands from a host computer,
PLC, or operator panel into step and direction pulses needed by a stepping motor driver.
indexing – An axis or axes in the process of moving to a pre-programmed position at a
defined speed and acceleration/deceleration rate.
initial unbalance – Unbalance of any kind that exists in the rotor before balancing.
initialize – To set values (addresses, counters, registers, and such) to a beginning value
before the rest of the processing.
IP rating – Ingress protection rating for enclosures. Defined in international standard
IEC 60529, classifies the level of protection that electrical appliances provide against the
intrusion of solid objects or dust, accidental contact, and water.
IP65 class – An IP rating for enclosures that are dust tight and protective against water
jets.
ISO – International Standards Organization. A worldwide federation whose purpose is to
set international standards in all fields, except electrical and electronic engineering,
which is under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

–J–
jitter – Small, rapid variations in a waveform due to mechanical disturbances or to
changes in the characteristic of components.
jog – An operator-controlled, limited advancement of a motor.
journal – The part of a rotor that is in contact with or supported by a bearing in which it
rotates.

–K–
keyway – A slot in the shaft or hub of a rotating system in which a key (metallic
pin or piece) is inserted to secure the pieces together, helping prevent slippage
during rotation.
kW – Kilowatt. A common unit of power, equal to 1000 watts or 737.56 foot-pounds
per second.

–L–
Lexan® – The GE brand of a polycarbonate, which is an extremely rugged, transparent
thermoplastic with a high impact strength.
light curtain – An array of photoelectric sensing beams configured to sense objects
passing anywhere through an area (sensing plane).

5-6 Glossary
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

–M–
machine – A mechanical device that transmits, modifies, or changes the direction of
force.
mass – The amount of matter an object contains.
manual mode – The operating mode in which the machine is controlled by an operator
through pushbuttons or other manual selections.
menu – On the Microsoft® Windows® operating system, a list of available software
functions (commands) for operator selection within a computer program.
method of correction – A procedure in which the mass distribution of a rotor is
adjusted to reduce unbalance, or vibration caused by unbalance, to an acceptable value.
Corrections are usually made by adding material to, or removing material from the rotor.
microprocessor – A computer’s main control chip that executes program instructions.
milling machine – A machine that removes metal by rotating a multi-toothed cutter that
is fed into the moving workpiece.

–N–
NEMA – National Electrical Manufacturers Association. An organization that develops
standards for the electrical manufacturing industry.
NEMA-4 – A NEMA standard that defines the protection qualities of enclosures
constructed for either indoor or outdoor use to provide a degree of protection to personnel
against access to hazardous parts; to provide a degree of protection of the equipment
inside the enclosure against ingress of solid foreign objects (falling dirt and windblown
dust); to provide a degree of protection with respect to harmful effects on the equipment
due to the ingress of water (rain, sleet, snow, splashing water, and hose directed water);
and that will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure.
NEMA-12 – A standard from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. This
standard defines enclosures constructed (without knockouts) for indoor use to provide a
degree of protection to personnel against access to hazardous parts; to provide a degree of
protection of the equipment inside the enclosure against ingress of solid foreign objects
(falling dirt and circulating dust, lint, fibers, and flyings); and to provide a degree of
protection with respect to harmful effects on the equipment due to the ingress of water
(dripping and light splashing).
network – A data communication system that links two or more computers and
peripheral devices.
nilling – See tooling compensation.

–O–
operating system – Computer software that provides the operator interface to the
computer. This program enables a user to load, execute, and develop their own programs,
interact with peripherals, and so forth. The most common operating systems are Unix,
MS-DOS, OS/2, and Microsoft® Windows®.

Glossary 5-7
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

–P–
parallel – Extending in the same direction, everywhere equidistant, and not meeting.
parity – (Communications.) A setting for checking the validity of a data transfer
(whether the number of bits sent is odd or even).
parameter –An adjustable software setting (item of information) that is used to program
and tune a computer-based machine.
PB-2000 – Hofmann microprocessor-based electronic measuring instrument used for
field balancing. The operator interface consists of an LCD readout and membrane buttons
with a protective graphic overlay. Housed in a sturdy, water-resistant case with adjustable
handle and connectors for accelerometers, photocell, and ac adaptor cord.
PC – Personal computer.
PCX, PCH, PCD Electronic Measuring Instruments – Hofmann’s Microsoft®
Windows® intelligent operator interface and precision controllers for your balancing
system. They consists of an industrial-grade computer (PCX and PCH) or standard
desktop computer, balancing program, and supporting electronics with a measure module
designed specifically for balancing applications.
perpendicular – Being at right angles to a given line or plane.
phenolic – Synthetic, thermosetting resins used to make molded products,
coatings, and adhesives.
photocell – Speed and angle sensor that provides electrical input (data) to a processor
for measuring unbalance. Monitors rotor rpm and angle reference. Positioned to shine a
light beam on the rotor to detect an index mark by change in light reflection.
piezoelectric or piezo-electric – (“Piezo” from Greek for “pressure.”) A property of
certain classes of crystalline materials to produce electricity when mechanical pressure is
applied to the material. The voltage produced is proportional to the pressure applied.
pinch point – Any point of a machine where a part of the body can be caught between
moving parts or a moving and stationary part.
plane – A surface containing all the straight lines that connect any two points on it.
PLC – See programmable logic controller.
pneumatic – Operated by air pressure.
pneumatics – A technique for control and actuation that uses air or gases.
polar graph – A line graph drawn on a circular grid. An independent variable is charted
on the angular axis, based on an origin (zero point) of three o’clock. A dependent
variable is charted on the radial axis, with the origin at the center of the circle.
position – A set of translation values X, Y, and Z in a coordinate system.
power supply – A separate device or part of a circuit that supplies electrical power to
the rest of the circuit or to another device or system.
PROFIBUS® – The field bus standard in production and process automation, defines
standards for physical bus characteristics and access methods, user protocol, and user
interface.
Profibus DP™ – PROFIBUS for Decentralized Peripherals. Specification of an open
fieldbus system for fast cyclic data interchange with field devices.

5-8 Glossary
Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

programmable logical controller (PLC) – A solid-state, industrial control system that

is programmed to perform specific functions, such as: I/O control logic, timing, and data
manipulation.
psi – A measure of air pressure in pounds-per-square-inch.
pulse – A brief change in a digital signal.
pulse-width modulation – A switch-mode control method used in amplifiers and drivers
to control motor voltage and current to obtain higher efficiency than linear control. PWM
refers to variable on/off times (or width) of the voltage pulses applied to the transistors.

–Q–
quasi-static unbalance – A type of unbalance in which the principle axis of inertia
intersects the shaft axis at a point other then the center of gravity. This may be caused by
a single unbalance in a plane other than the center of gravity, or by a combination of
static and couple unbalances where the static mass is in the same plane as one of the
couple masses.

–R–
RAM – Random Access Memory. Computer memory that can written to and read from
quickly. It is used for operating systems, application programs, and data processing.
radial correction – When the drill of a balancing station corrects unbalance by drilling
perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
radius – Distance from the center of a circle (or sphere) to any point on the circle (or
sphere).
real-time – A computer’s ability to respond to events that are occurring outside the
computer in a reasonable amount of time.
reference plane – Any plane perpendicular to the shaft axis of a rotor in which
correction for unbalance is made.
reference point, reference mark – A location, usually marked, that is used to relate a
position during rotation of a part to its location when stopped.
ramping – The process of controlling the pulse frequency to accelerate or decelerate a
stepper motor. Ramping increases the ability to drive larger loads at greater speeds by
slowing the first series of pulses. This enables the motor to overcome inertial loads, as
well as to reduce overshooting by means of a more gradual slow down.
reliability – The probability that a device will function without failure over a specified
time period or amount of usage.
repeatability – The ability of a system to return to the same value time after time. This
can be measured with a standard deviation.
residual (final) unbalance – Unbalance of any kind that remains after balancing.
rotor – A body, capable of rotation, generally with journals that are supported by
bearings.
rpm (or RPM) – Rotations per minute.

Glossary 5-9
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

–S–
SAE – Society of Automotive Engineers. An international organization of engineers and
other professionals dedicated to advancing mobility engineering worldwide. This group
provides engineering standards.
sensor – A device that monitors a condition (such as heat, light, sound, pressure,
magnetism, motion) and transmits a signal or data when that condition is detected.
serial port – A port, or interface, for transmitting data signals one bit at a time and in
sequence.
servo – An automatic, closed-loop motion control system that uses feedback to control a
desired output such as position, velocity, or acceleration.
servo motor – A motor that together with its resolver or encoder is capable of being
precisely controlled. A resolver or encoder provides constant and highly accurate
feedback on the motor’s exact position, speed, and torque to the drive that powers it.
shaft axis – The straight line joining the journal centers of a rotor.
shielded – Protected from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference by cladding
or insulation, such as metal or plastic.
side-spindle balancer– Balancing machine configuration in which the rotor is mounted
horizontally and overhung to the right with two correction planes.
single-plane (static) balancing – A procedure by which the mass distribution of a rigid
rotor is adjusted in one plane to ensure that the residual dynamic unbalance is within
specified limits.
soft-bearing balancer – A balancing machine that spins the rotor on softly sprung
bearings, using the resulting amplitude of vibration (displacement) to determine
unbalance.
springs – Item used to generate vibration or to isolate vibration between the machine
and the structure.
static unbalance – Unbalance that displaces the principal axis of inertia parallel to the
shaft axis. This type of unbalance is caused by a single unbalance in the same plane as the
center of gravity or two equal unbalances, at the same radius, in phase in different planes
that are equidistant from the center of gravity.
startup – Routine application of power to a system and preparation for operation.
static unbalance – The condition of unbalance for which the central principal axis is
displaced only parallel to the shaft axis.
system – A complex collection of components that performs a set of functions.
step – The angular rotation produced by a rotor each time the motor receives a pulse. For
linear actuators, a step translates to a specific linear distance.
stepper motor – A device that translates electrical pulses into precise mechanical
movement. The output shaft may deliver rotary or linear motion.
step-per-revolution – The total number of steps to rotate the motor shaft 360 degrees.

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Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems Balancing Overview

–T–
touch-screen display – A type of display screen (pc monitor) that has a touch-sensitive
transparent panel covering the screen. Instead of using a pointing device, such as a
mouse, you select objects on the display by touching them with your finger.
two-plane (dynamic) balancing – A procedure by which the mass distribution of a rigid
rotor is adjusted in two planes to ensure that the residual dynamic unbalance is within
specified limits.
two-plane horizontal – Balancing machine configuration in which the rotor is mounted
horzontally with two correction planes.
TFT LCD – Thin film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD). A type of LCD
flat-panel display screen in which each pixel is controlled by one to four transistors. The
TFT technology provides the best resolution of all the flat-panel techniques. Also called
active-matrix LCDs.
toggle – Switch back and forth.
tolerance – The amount of unbalance (with respect to a measuring or correction plane)
that is specified as the maximum below which the state of unbalance is considered
acceptable.
tooling compensation (nilling) – In balancing, the correction for errors, or eccentricity,
in the mounting surfaces between tooling and the rotor to be balanced to prevent false
readings of unbalance. Compensation can be made mechanically or with the balancing
software.

–U–
unbalance – When the rotor’s center of mass is not at the center of rotation. This occurs
when the mass around the axis of rotation is not evenly distributed.
unbalance amount – See amount (of unbalance).
unbalance angle– See angle (of unbalance).
user interface – A person’s means of communicating with a computer.

–V–
vertical balancer – A balancing machine that measures unbalance on planes positioned
vertically (for two-plane measurement, a lower plane and an upper plane).
VG – Viscosity grade of industrial lubricant. For example, ISO VG 68 oil has a viscosity
grade of 68 with a range between 61.2 and 74.8.
vibration – Mechanical oscillation or motion about a reference point of equilibrium.
vibration severity – Displacement over time, or how fast an object moves as it shakes.
vibration measurement – Displacement, or how far an object moves as it shakes.

Glossary 5-11
Balancing Overview Hofmann Precision Balancing Systems

–W–
warning (drive) – An indication that the instrumentation software has detected a serious
condition in the machine operation. The condition may or may not shut down the
machine. If the serious condition continues, the warning may change to an alarm.
way oil – Lubricant for the sliding ways of machine tools such as planers, grinders,
horizontal boring machines, shapers, jig borers, and milling machines. A good way
lubricant is formulated with special frictional characteristics designed to overcome the
stick-slip motion associated with slow-moving machine parts.
way – Longitudinal surface that guides the reciprocal movement of a machine part.
web (drill) – See drill web.
workpiece – In balancing, another term for the rotor or unit being measured for
unbalance.
work support – In horizontal balancers, a mechanical support (two) that attaches to the
machine base for holding each end of the rotor.

–Y–
yoke – Another term for work supports.

5-12 Glossary
 American Hofmann Corporation
3700 Cohen Place
Lynchburg, VA 24501 USA
Tel: +1.434.522.0300 or 1.800.446.0997
Fax: +1.434.846.1340
www.hofmann-global.com

Inquiry Specification Sheet for Balancing Machines

Hofmann provides a wide range of balancing products and services. If you would like information on how
we can meet your balancing needs, please mail, fax, or email the following information to us. We will
contact you with our evaluation and ideas.

Information About Your Company

Company Name & Street Address Contact Person Name

Title or Department Telephone No.

Email Address Fax No.

Mailing Address (if different from above)
Additional Contact (if needed)

Please attach a drawing or photograph of the part(s) to be processed on the balancing machine and
provide the following information.

Balancing Requirements
Application or type of rotors to be balanced: _________________________________________________________________________

Number of rotors to be balanced per day: ____________________________________________________________________

Operating speed range: ________________________________________________________________________________________

Method of correction used: ______________________________________________________________________________________

Does the function of the part limit the correction? _____________________________________________________________________

Maximum initial unbalance (if known): _____________________________________________________________________________

Required balancing accuracy: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Rotor Data
Weight: Distance between bearings:
Max. Min. Max. Min.
Diameter: Journals:
Max. Min. Width Diameter
Overall length:
Max. Min.

Additional information or comments that we may need to more accurately process your request.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________
 Fold here and close with tape.

______________________
Place
______________________ stamp
here for
______________________ mailing.
______________________

American Hofmann Corporation

Sales Department
3700 Cohen Place
Lynchburg, VA 24501 USA

Fold here first.

 Equipment that runs quietly, smoothly, and reliably gets a reputation for excellence.
American Hofmann Corporation is dedicated to the excellence of our customers.

Our modern factory in Lynchburg, Virginia houses American Hofmann’s corporate headquarters with design, engineering,
manufacturing, and sales teams. We support our customers with sales and service bases and representatives across the USA
and around the world. We have all the systems in place to provide you with a high-quality product and excellent service backup.

Balance… can be the difference between success and failure.

That’s why it’s important… no, it is essential… to choose the right balancing company.

American Hofmann balancing machines cover a wide range of sizes and applications, but all the
machines have one thing in common… they are designed around the needs of our customers.
Machines range from simple bench-top models, to complex multi-station automatic measuring and
correction systems. Applications range from electric motor repair shops to automotive production line
equipment, and from hydro-power turbine runners to gyroscope and dental turbine rotors.

American Hofmann standard balancing machines include vertical, side-spindle, and horizontal
balancers for rotor diameters from 0.3 mm to parts greater than four meters in diameter, and weights
from 50 mg to 40 tons. Balancing speeds can range from 60 rpm to over 200,000 rpm, as needed for
accuracy in measurement. Optional correction systems can complete your process. Additionally, the
company specializes in custom balancing machines designed for unique applications.

Modular construction enables us to offer custom machines for specific applications using many
standard parts for reliability and cost effectiveness.

Balancing services include contract balancing, balancing machine upgrades and retrofits, rotor
analysis, and training at your facility or ours.

Regardless of the application, American Hofmann Corporation

is the definitive solution to all of your balancing needs.