The Influence of Small Clearances in the Spherical Joints of the Systems on their Dynamic Response

Abstract

The paper highlights the influence of small clearances in the spherical joints on their natural frequencies and modes of vibration. Joints with bearings made of materials that involve low friction in the coupling (Teflon and HDPE polyethylene) were considered. Two cases of coupling by means of the spherical joints were considered, namely: the coupling angle of the bars in the spherical joint being of 00 and of 900, respectively. The size of the clearance influences the first natural frequency of the system in the sense of decreasing it, but also in the modification of the vibration modes of the system when even a small clearance appears in the joint.