Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of a crack on the elastic behavior of a rotor, for the early detection of the problem.
Theoretical Framework: The theory of numerical methods and the theory of finite elements are applied to establish the range of revolutions per minute that will imply rotor resonance.
Method: The methodology adopted for this investigation includes the virtual generation of the rotor, simply supported at its ends and with a concentrated load at the center, whose triangular diagonal chordal crack with variable inclination is caused by an isosceles triangle with constant height and width. Their deflections are calculated for different inclinations and orientations of the crack.
Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed variable shifts of the cross section with maximum deformation, with respect to the central cross section of the rotor, depending on the inclination and orientation of the crack. The results can be used to predict at an early stage the possibility of the birth and growth of a crack, as well as to prevent the subsequent fracture of the rotor.
Research Implications: The results can be applied to the detection of cracks in a predictive or preventive stage, reducing or eliminating the corrective stage, avoiding thermal and noise pollution, increasing the safety of operators, avoiding damage to the infrastructure of companies and therefore to their economy.
Originality/Value: This study contributes to literature by increasing the depth and extent of knowledge on cracked rotors and possible alternative solutions.