Högskolan i Skövde

This project is centered around the use of finite element analysis for developing a beam for a new type of motor used in a screening machine. Essentially the main purpose of the developed beam is to transfer vibrations to the screen machine that it will be attached to. Since the machine operates on vibrations from the motor, the beam was to be designed with material fatigue in mind, which demanded examination of stresses in the welded joints of the beam. Concepts were generated with a specification of requirements as a basis, and the concepts were then analysed with finite element analysis. The results from this analysis were compared and a final design choice was selected. Since the beam will be subjected to varying fatigue loads, an S-N curve was needed to gain information of the material’s cyclic stress versus life. Most S-N curves are accessible through literature or databases, however, there are some materials that do not have an S-N curve available. If that is the case then the designer has the option to estimate one using ultimatetensile strength and the material’s fatigue limit. Hence, an S-N curve was estimated in this project.