An Experimental (In-vehicle) Study of a Dual Mode Crankshaft Damper for an Engine Crankshaft

Significant engine noise and vibration can be caused by crankshaft imbalance. Torsional vibration dampers, also known as “crankshaft dampers” have long been used to reduce torsional vibrations in the crankshaft. In addition, radial vibrations of the crankshaft have been addressed using dual mode dampers.

Past studies have focused on theoretical analyses of the torsional and radial vibrations due to the crankshaft. These analyses have been compared to experimental results. Although experimental results have proven the value of the dampers, limited in-vehicle testing has been performed.

This study investigates the effects of torsional and radial vibrations on engines mounted on bedplates and in vehicles, to determine whether dual mode damper technology is capable of reducing engine vibrations and if it has other benefits throughout a vehicle platform.