Support System Design for Horizontal Rotor Balancing Machines

This paper reports on the structural design and finite element analysis (FEA) of support leg geometries for horizontal rotor balancing machines applied in decanter centrifuge systems. Such support structures play a key role in the provision of mechanical stability, reduction of vibration, and secure transmission of dynamic forces from high-speed rotating parts. This study seeks to determine an optimal geometry of support legs with high stiffness, low deformation, and good dynamic characteristics under static and dynamic loading conditions. Three different support leg designs were created and modeled in CAD software, then analyzed using FEA software. The first design makes use of standard rectangular hollow sections. The second adds welded connector pins to increase torsional stiffness. The third adds vertical stiffeners down the profile to add deformation resistance and minimize unsupported surface area. All models were designed using ST37 (S235JR) structural steel, chosen for its decent weldability and mechanical strength, and assumed to be produced through Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). Simulation outcomes were centered on major mechanical parameters such as Von Mises stress distribution, overall deformation, and natural frequencies through modal analysis. The third design, strengthened with vertical stiffeners, exhibited better structural performance with less stress concentration, minimum displacement, and higher natural frequency values, signifying greater vibration resistance. This numerical study concludes that vertical stiffening is the best structural solution for the support legs of rotor balancing machines. These conclusions give useful guidelines for enhancing mechanical reliability and performance in high-speed centrifuge applications.