Strategies for reducing stress in ultrasonic cutting systems

Cardoni, A. and Lucas, M. (2005) Strategies for reducing stress in ultrasonic cutting systems. Strain, 41(1), pp. 11-18. (doi: 10.1111/j.1475-1305.2004.00162.x)

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Abstract

Ultrasonic cutting is an established technology in the cutting of food products. As the high-cost components of an ultrasonic cutting system are the ultrasonic generator and transducer, some designs have concentrated on running several cutting blades from a single power source. This strategy is undoubtedly economic, but problems remain with reliability. Blade failure during cutting is a common problem in ultrasonic systems and therefore strategies are proposed to reduce stress levels at the failure locations. Many alternative blade profiles are investigated using finite element (FE) models, which are validated by experimental modal analysis (EMA) using a 3D laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV). Combining three strategies can reduce the stress level at the failure location on cutting blades. The first investigates the blade profile at the failure location with the aim of incorporating sufficient gain at reduced stress levels. The second concentrates on detuning the block horn and blades in order to move the longitudinal node away from the highest stressed section of the blade. Finally, a redesign of the block horn is studied in order to eliminate the effects of blade flexural vibrations in the longitudinal cutting mode.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Cardoni, Dr Andrea and Lucas, Professor Margaret
Authors: Cardoni, A., and Lucas, M.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy
Journal Name:Strain
Publisher:Wiley
ISSN:0039-2103
ISSN (Online):1475-1305
Published Online:11 February 2005

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