Torsional Vibration Dynamics in Propulsion Systems

Propulsion systems in marine vessels, road vehicles and aeroengines rely on rotating shafts and couplings to transmit torque from prime movers to thrust devices. Torsional vibration arises when the torque applied by combustion, electric motors or turbines fluctuates with time, inducing oscillatory twist along the drive train. If these oscillations coincide with the torsional natural frequencies of components such as crankshafts, propeller shafts or gearing, resonant amplification can result in fatigue, noise and mechanical failure. Accurate prediction and control of torsional dynamics therefore underpin the reliability and efficiency of modern propulsion architectures. Analytical models, finite-element analyses and multibody simulations are commonly used to capture the complex interactions between torsion, bending and longitudinal modes. In parallel, experimental measurements on test rigs and in-service systems validate computational predictions and inform design improvements such as tuned dampers, variable-stiffness couplings and optimised shaft geometries. Advances in material science and modelling techniques have led to more accurate damping characterisation and real-time monitoring strategies. This integrated approach ensures that propulsion systems meet stringent performance, safety and sustainability targets across diverse operating environments.

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Torsional Vibration Dynamics in Propulsion Systems publication trend

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Technical terms

Torsional vibration: oscillatory twisting motion of a shaft induced by time-varying torques.

Natural frequency: frequency at which a system tends to oscillate when disturbed from equilibrium without external forcing.

Damping coefficient: parameter quantifying the rate of energy dissipation in a vibrating system.

Lumped-mass model: simplified representation of a continuous structure using discrete masses connected by springs and dampers.

Coupling stiffness: measure of torsional rigidity linking two rotational components within a drive train.

References

1. Investigation of Lumped-Mass Method on Coupled Torsional-longitudinal Vibrations for a Marine Propulsion Shaft with Impact Factors. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (2019).
2. Effect of Coupled Torsional and Transverse Vibrations of the Marine Propulsion Shaft System. Journal of Marine Science and Application (2021).
3. Method for Adjusting Torsional Natural Frequencies of Powertrains with Novel Coupling Design. Machines (2022).