Finite element analysis of flywheel couplings
Abstract
As finite element analysis (FEA) enters the engineering environment as a tested and reliable tool, more and more designs in diverse areas of engineering are being analyzed through the use of this software. FEA provides the ability to analyze the stresses and displacements of a part or assembly, as well as the reaction forces other elements are to impose. FEA can be applied to many engineering areas, one of which is couplings, yet minimal research has been conducted in this area. Couplings provide the ability to transfer rotating power from a rotating power source to a rotating power consumer. This transfer of power not only develops stresses from the torque applied to the coupling, but also from the angular velocity in which it is applied. The stresses developed can be combated, not only by the coupling design, but also by the type of coupling. This thesis guides the path through a coupling design based on the misalignment of the power supplier and consumer, as well as application, design life, fatigue life, wear life, service and safety factors. In addition to the factors governing the design, the material selection process through the use of Ashby charts is outlined to choose the proper material for the design and the environment. Lastly, the FEA model is described to achieve a better understanding of the mesh type, mesh size and boundary conditions applied to complete an effective FEA model.
Degree
M.S.E.
Advisors
Zhou, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Mechanical engineering|Materials science
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