MECN3027 – Mechanical Vibrations

Name: Student No: Tutor:

OPEN BOOK SPOT TEST – Harmonic Base Excitation

6.5
ζ=0
6

5.5
0.1
5

4.5

4
X
Y Td =

3.5

3
0.2
2.5

2
0.3
0.4
1.5

1 ζ=1 ζ=1
0.5
ζ=0
0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3
ω
r= ωn

A precision grinder of mass m = 900 kg is mounted on a foundation by means of supports which have an equiv-
alent stiffness of k = 500 kN/m and negligible damping. After the installation of a reciprocating compressor
in the vicinity of the grinder it is noticed that the surface finish resulting from the grinding process is poor. An
investigation reveals that the the reciprocating compressor causes harmonic vibration of the foundation of the
grinder with an amplitude of 0.2 mm, when the compressor operates at ω = 250 rpm. Using the data given
and the graph and equations supplied, answer the following questions. The transient vibration response may be
ignored. s s
X 1 + (2ζ r)2 FT 1 + (2ζ r)2
Td = = and = r2
Y (1 − r2 )2 + (2ζ r)2 kY (1 − r2 )2 + (2ζ r)2

(a) Using data from the graph, estimate the steady state amplitude of vibration of the grinder. What is the
force transmitted to the grinder?
(b) If the allowable steady state amplitude of vibration of the grinder is to be 0.4 mm, determine analytically
(i.e. use the equation) the range of stiffnesses of the support that would achieve the desired result (while
still maintaining zero damping).
(c) If it is now decided to introduce damping as an alternative to altering the stiffness of the base, using the
graph estimate the required damping ratio ζ that would would result in a the steady state amplitude to
0.4 mm. What is the transmitted force at steady state now?
(d) Would it be better to change the stiffness of the support or introduce damping? Explain your reasoning.