Blade and Shaft Crack Detection Using Torsional Vibration Measurements Part 1: Feasibility Studies

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The primary goal of the development project was to demonstrate the feasibility of detecting changes in blade natural frequencies (such as those associated with a blade crack) on a turbine using non-contact, non-intrusive measurement methods. The approach was to set up a small experimental apparatus, develop a torsional vibration detection system, and maximize the dynamic range and the signal to noise ratio. The results of the testing and analysis clearly demonstrated the feasibility of using torsional vibration to detect the change in natural frequency of a blade due to a change in stiffness such as those associated with a blade crack.