Identification and mitigation of resonance factors in heavy-duty gearboxes for marine offshore wind turbines
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 602105, India
2Department of Mathematics, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, 600062, India
3Department of Mathematics, Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science, Chennai, 603103, India
4Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Rohini College of Engineering and Technology. Kanyakumari, 629401, India
J Ther Eng 2026; 12(5): 1611-1624 DOI: 10.47481/jten.0052
Full Text PDF

Abstract

This experimental study aims to determine the resonant frequency in planetary and high-frequency gearboxes operating in offshore environments at 1150 rpm (corresponding to 740 Hz). This research aims to investigate resonance throughout the gearbox using an FFT test bench
and Ansys software. The analysis methods include examining the entire gearbox and housing in ANSYS Workbench. Key findings from three load cases are as follows: in load case three, the gearbox housing exhibited resonance at the fourth mode, accompanied by significant noise,
including whistling, reaching up to 100 decibels. To address this issue, a stiffener should be added to the gearbox housing to mitigate resonance. The practical value of this research lies in identifying the gearbox’s resonance modes to prevent excessive vibrations that can lead to premature component wear. Recognizing resonance is essential for developing transmission systems that can withstand the potential for failure and extend their operating lifespan. By detecting and addressing these resonances, we can reduce disturbances, protect the gearbox, and allow seabirds and other wildlife to thrive.