Run out verification of propeller shafts

A discussion regarding the alignment and measuring procedure of propeller shafts has arose due to the competing situation in the industry, and higher standards from the customers. An estimation of the deflection of shafts in different alignment situations has been made with help of FEM-analysis and beam theory. This has been analyzed and compared with the experience from Rolls-Royce AB suppliers of shafts. An evaluation of measuring protocols has been made and the result indicates that there is a correlation between the deflection of the shaft and the run out. Results from a measuring test performed by Balino, Spain, verifies this conclusion. But the main issue is considered to be the type of supports that prevent the shaft from moving in the horizontal plane. The solution to this issue is to use supports along the shaft that only prevents the deflection in the median plane. A recommendation to the Rolls-Royce AB is to perform changes in their measuring protocols to make them easier to use and to include more information. The sequence of the measuring points in the protocol should be re-arranged and re-named. Information of what type of support that has been used by the supplier and where they been placed should be added to the protocols to increase the traceability when questions arise. To make the measuring protocol unequivocal, the position of the measuring gauge should be marked in the protocol and the point of reference marked on the shaft. External expertise will participate in a workshop to educate and discuss with Rolls-Royce AB personnel how to change required references in the drawing of the shaft arrangements