Solutions
Optimize crankshaft performance with GT-SUITE's comprehensive cranktrain toolbox. Predict dynamics, balance, torsional vibration, bending stresses, and bearing loads directly from CAD models for superior engine reliability.
Solution Overview
In addition to crankshaft definition with basic dimensions and material properties, GT-SUITE offers a streamlined process for importing solid models to extract key geometry, mass and moments of inertia. The crankshaft can easily be switched between rigid, torsional and bending models for balance, vibration and stress evaluation respectively.
The cranktrain application supports a library of bearing models of various levels of fidelity from basic mobility to formal EHD solutions.
Additionally, skirt and ring models are available for preliminary friction prediction and evaluation at the concept phase.
Application Highlights
Optimize crankshaft performance, durability, and NVH analysis with advanced simulation tools designed for complex engine development workflows.
Six ODE integrators deliver fast run times across a wide range of simulation conditions, with implicit schemes that handle the numerical stiffness inherent in 3D bending dynamics without sacrificing stability or accuracy.
Crankweb beam compliances for 3D bending analysis are extracted automatically from 3D FEA static results, eliminating manual data preparation and reducing the risk of modeling errors at the geometry-to-simulation interface.
A complete 3D stress state is reconstructed for each crank throw using linear superposition of FEA unit-load results, enabling fatigue life prediction, Equivalent Fully Reversed stress calculation, and statistical reliability assessment in a single workflow.
Viscous and rubber torsional dampers are modeled using a Maxwell solid formulation, providing accurate frequency-dependent damping behavior essential for crankshaft NVH and durability evaluations.
Crankshaft torsional and bending analyses are solved with consistent formulations in both the time and frequency domains, allowing engineers to select the most efficient approach for each application without compromising result compatibility.
Both steady-state and transient operating conditions are supported within a single modeling environment, enabling engineers to evaluate crankshaft behavior across the complete range of engine operating scenarios without rebuilding models.
Find answers to common Cranktrain simulation questions.
GT-SUITE offers three analysis modes: rigid, torsional, and 3D bending. Each mode is suited to a different stage of development or level of detail required. Rigid analysis is the starting point for forces, bearing loads, and torque distribution. Torsional analysis focuses on vibration behavior, while 3D bending is used for crankshaft durability and stress evaluation. The model can be switched between modes without rebuilding the system, making it easy to progress from concept through detailed validation.
Yes. GT-SUITE supports 3D stress and fatigue analysis using FEA unit-load stress recombination and includes a dedicated workflow for crankshaft evaluation in accordance with the IACS M53 standard. The M53 analysis combines rigid bending results with frequency-domain torsional analysis to produce an equivalent alternating stress, which is then compared against the fatigue strength of the selected material. This makes it well suited for marine and large-bore engine certification programs.
Yes. The Cranktrain application is designed to operate as part of a fully integrated system model. It connects directly with GT-POWER for combustion and torque inputs, as well as with lubrication circuits, valvetrain systems, timing drives, and vehicle drivetrains within the same simulation environment. This allows engineers to evaluate interactions such as combustion-induced torsional excitation, oil supply effects on bearing performance, and drivetrain recoil loads without transferring data between separate tools.
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