A Generalized Approach to the Dynamics of Cracked Shafts

A new analytic-experimental method for describing crack breathing and obtaining shaft local stiffness change is presented. A generalized nonlinear formulation using the finite element method, which can be widely used for both horizontal and vertical cracked shafts, is derived. Some results previously explicited in other studies are confirmed and clarified. This advanced model can serve as a solid basis for further studies.