Tip timing

Tip timing is an optical, non-contact measurement method for the analysis and characterization of blade vibrations in turbomachinery. It enables detailed investigations of high cycle fatigue (HCF), mistuning and crack detection.

Description

Areas of application

  • Blade vibration analysis: Detection of synchronous and non-synchronous vibrations in turbomachinery during operation

  • Mistuning investigations: Analysis of vibration differences between blades

  • Crack detection: Early detection of blade cracks through altered vibration characteristics

Functionality

  • Measurement variables: Resonant frequency and speed, amplitude, phase, engine order, node diameter, damping properties

  • Measurement principle:
    • Sensors record the arrival time of blades based on reflected laser light
    • Deviations in the arrival time indicate vibration deflections
    • Up to three simultaneous vibrations can be analyzed with eight sensors

Properties

  • Non-invasive procedure: No influence on the vibration system

  • Simple implementation: Detection of all blades without major instrumentation effort

  • No need for telemetry: Sensors are mounted in the housing

  • High temperature resistant: Can be used in extreme operating conditions, e.g. turbocharger turbines

  • Flexible use: System can be used on all TFD test benches