A Hypothetical Approach and Preliminary Investigation of Propeller Shaft Under Fatigue Loading Using Different Materials

Abstract

The intention behind the research study is an approach to find fatigue analysis of a propeller shaft used in an automobile vehicle. Propeller shaft is used basically to transmit the power generated from the engine. An attempt has been made in the study to find the best suited material for propeller shaft. The study indicates the deformation occurs due to the frequent changes in loading conditions. For further work two materials has been taken viz steel and composites. Propeller shaft is used to transfer rotary motion to the differential by using constant mesh, or synchromesh gear box. Propeller shaft converts the torque to the rear wheel when vehicle is in moving condition. The power generated from engine is stored in flywheel which is then converted to clutch and transmitted to gear box, form gear box power is transmitted through propeller shaft to rear wheels. The position of propeller shaft is in such a way that one is connected to gear box and another end is connected to rear axle differential and finally torque is transmitted to rear wheels .So the shaft should be made of such material with suitable diameter and length to withstand torsional stresses developed by torque transmission , also it should be well balanced so that the vibration occurrence should be minimum. Also Composites as an alternative is used, from composites shaft is designed. After designing, analysis is done to find out the stresses. Also, it will help to rectify torsional strength, bending stresses to find the suitable material for the shaft.

Finally, the research suggests the best material for propeller shaft.