Sauer 2023, Gl. 7.55–7.57

Shaft unbalance: amplitude magnitude

Preliminary calculation with a fixed result quantity: η=n/nK; |f|=e·|η²/(1−η²)|

MINTSI
01

Inputs

Magnitude of stationary radial displacement.

Mass-centre offset from the rotation axis.

Rotor speed.

Undamped resonance speed.

02

Result

Select a target and calculate.

Calculation

η=n/nK; |f|=e·|η²/(1−η²)|

Preliminary calculation with a fixed result quantity: η=n/nK; |f|=e·|η²/(1−η²)|

Understand the inputs
  • Amplitude magnitude |f|Magnitude of stationary radial displacement.
  • Eccentricity eMass-centre offset from the rotation axis.
  • Operating speed nRotor speed.
  • Critical speed nKUndamped resonance speed.
Example

e=0.05 mm and n/nK=0.8 give |f|≈0.0889 mm.

Assumptions and limits

Undamped single-mass rotor; no finite solution exists at n=nK, and Sauer recommends avoiding 0.85…1.25·nK.

Technical article

Understand Shaft unbalance: amplitude magnitude

This Sauer machine-element calculator provides a clearly scoped preliminary calculation based on the local Sauer reference. The result quantity is fixed and every input is explained physically; a complete component verification remains separate.

What does this quantity describe?

The model translates the defined geometry and load into a characteristic machine-element quantity. It is intentionally narrower than a complete strength verification.

Formula and variables

η=n/nK; |f|=e·|η²/(1−η²)|

  • Relationship from the cited Sauer section; approximations are identified on the individual calculator page
Symbol / inputMeaning
Amplitude magnitude |f|Magnitude of stationary radial displacement.
Eccentricity eMass-centre offset from the rotation axis.
Operating speed nRotor speed.
Critical speed nKUndamped resonance speed.

Choose the inputs correctly

Each input is identified as nominal, effective or mean. Lengths, forces, torques, stresses, angles and dimensionless factors are converted internally to coherent SI units. Absolute pressure must be distinguished from gauge pressure.

How to use the calculator

Use the fixed result quantity, copy the inputs from the drawing, load case or material data sheet, and check every unit. Then compare the result, worked example and model limits.

Worked example

The page example deliberately uses rounded, technically plausible values. It is an independent plausibility check, not a universal table value.

Understand the result and units

The result is a preliminary design quantity. A small or large value is meaningful only together with allowable stress, wear, temperature, manufacturing and safety factors.

Display units can be selected per field; the shared unit core calculates internally in SI. Enter percentages as decimal factors unless the field explicitly carries a percent unit.

Typical applications

Typical uses are option comparison, early sizing, teaching and plausibility checking of a detailed calculation.

Assumptions, limits and common mistakes

Automatic norm-table selection, fatigue, local stress peaks, tolerance chains, temperature and wear models, and design release are not included.

Common mistake: Common mistakes are using the wrong reference diameter, confusing full and half angles, entering gauge instead of absolute pressure, using percent instead of a decimal factor, and treating a preliminary result as a standard verification.

Frequently asked questions

Is this a complete strength verification?

No. It is a closed-form preliminary calculation; material, safety, fatigue and detail checks remain separate.

Why are mean and effective quantities identified?

Pressure, diameter, load share and deflection act at different geometric locations depending on the model.

Can the result automatically select a standard size?

No. Standard and manufacturer series must be matched to the actual output and tolerance situation.

How do I check the order of magnitude?

Use the worked example, test an analytical limiting case, and then verify units and signs.

When is FEM or a supplier calculation needed?

For sharp geometry steps, local contact, large deflection, dynamic excitation, heat, wear or safety-critical release.

Sources, method and review

  • Bernd Sauer (Hrsg.), Konstruktionselemente des Maschinenbaus 1, 10. Auflage 2023, lokale PDF 978-3-662-66823-8, geprüft am 10.09.2026

Our method, source hierarchy and automated checks are documented on the methodology page. Read the methodology

Responsible
NormCalc-Redaktion
Last updated
2026-09-10