A model-based identification method of transverse cracks in rotating shafts suitable for industrial machines

This paper presents a model-based transverse crack identification method suitable for industrial machines. The method is validated by experimental results obtained on a large test rig, which was expressly designed for investigating the dynamical behaviour of cracked horizontal rotors. The identification method and the relative theory is briefly presented, while three different types of cracks are considered: the first is a slot, therefore not actually a crack since it has not the typical breathing behaviour, the second a small crack (14% of the diameter) and the third a deep crack (47% of the diameter). The excellent accuracy obtained in identifying position and depth of different cracks proves the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed method. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.