Citation de Invité le 3 octobre 2024, 3h32

propeller balancing

Propeller balancing is a crucial process in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of aircraft and other machines that utilize rotating mechanisms. The need for effective balancing arises due to the potential for imbalances to lead to excessive vibrations, which can compromise the integrity and performance of the equipment. This summary delves into the process of balancing aircraft propellers, with specific reference to the Balanset-1 device, which serves as a portable balancer and vibration analyzer.

The Balanset-1 device has been designed for dynamic balancing of various rotating machinery, including aircraft propellers, and has found application across multiple industries. Since its introduction over two years ago, more than 180 units have been deployed, highlighting its effectiveness in balancing fans, electric motors, and other rotary systems. There has been a particular interest in leveraging this technology for balancing aircraft propellers in field conditions, particularly from organizations and individuals within the aeronautics industry.

Historically, the specialists at the manufacturing company had limited experience specifically involving aircraft propellers. However, collaborative efforts, particularly with pilots such as V.D. Chvokov, prompted significant advancements in this area. These efforts led to the successful implementation of the Balanset-1 on several aircraft, including the Yak-52 and Su-29 models, where comprehensive vibration surveys and balancing operations were performed.

In terms of methodology, the balancing process typically involves the installation of vibration sensors and laser phase angle sensors on the aircraft's engine gearbox. Data collected by these sensors is processed digitally, allowing for the calculation of correction weights needed to remedy any identified imbalances. The first notable project involved balancing the two-blade propeller of the Yak-52 aircraft controlled by an M-14P aviation engine. The vibrations were assessed while the aircraft's propeller was operating, revealing essential data on vibration levels pre and post-balancing initiatives.

Technical assessments revealed that balancing efforts improved the vibration levels significantly, reducing vibrations from 10.2 mm/sec to 4.2 mm/sec after applying corrective measures. This was achieved by implementing a classic two-run balancing scheme where vibrations were measured before and after the introduction of trial weights. The results were calculated using specialized software, which provided both the mass and installation angles for the corrective weights.

Moreover, dynamic balancing in restricted field conditions can be challenging due to the need for precise measurements and installations. During the Yak-52 project, parameters such as engine rotation frequencies ensuring minimal residual imbalance were identified, with the general balance tolerance levels being established. Understanding the natural frequencies of various structural components—both of the aircraft and the propeller itself—was critical in selecting an optimal rotation frequency for balancing.

The accumulated experience from the Yak-52 project led to further studies on the effects of propeller balancing, eventually being extended to include the three-blade MTV-9-K-C/CL 260-27 propeller used in the Su-29 aerobatic aircraft. This involved similar processes of analyzing vibration patterns pre-balancing and developed insight into the natural frequencies encountered both in flight and during ground tests.

In the case of the Su-29, balancing efforts resulted in a significant reduction of propeller vibration from an initial measurement of 6.7 mm/sec down to 1.5 mm/sec. This impressive result underlined the Balanset-1’s capabilities in correctly diagnosing and addressing rotational imbalances in real-time conditions. By adjusting parameters and re-evaluating vibration spectra across various operational modes, operators were able to achieve substantial control over the aircraft's performance.

Furthermore, vibration monitoring emerged as an essential tool for diagnosing the technical condition of aircraft engines. The implementation of continuous checks aided in identifying any sharp increases in vibration, potentially related to resonance issues or structural weaknesses that may arise during flight. Analyzing both the propeller and engine vibrations provided users with a comprehensive overview of operational integrity and machine functionality.

In conclusion, propeller balancing is a vital aspect of maintaining aircraft performance and ensuring operational safety. Devices like the Balanset-1 facilitate this process by allowing for easy deployment in field conditions, granting users the capability to perform necessary adjustments effectively. The extensive experience gained from balancing aircraft such as the Yak-52 and Su-29 demonstrates the potential for further advancements in this field, paving the way for ongoing improvement in rotor technology applications across both aviation and other industries reliant on rotating mechanics.

Article taken from https://vibromera.eu/