Solutions

Cranktrain Simulation

GT-SUITE’s Cranktrain application offers a variety of practical engineering analyses.

Talk to an Expert

Solution Overview

Variety Of Practical Engineering Analyses

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.

Cranktrain image
cranktrain-600-x-600-px

Application Highlights

Cranktrain Modeling Capabilities

  • Expert-system cranktrain toolbox (piston, conrod, web, etc. ) for easy layout of any (I, V, W) cranktrain
  • Rigid, torsional and 3D-bending analysis modes
  • Rigid kinematics, forces, torques, bearing loads
  • Engine unbalanced forces moments, balance shafts
  • 3-D Block vibrations and mounting system analysis
  • Crankshaft torsional vibrations (time and frequency domain)
  • Viscous, rubber dampers, vibration isolators
  • Crankshaft 3D bending: dynamic or quasi-static, crankshaft durability
  • Main and conrod bearings analysis (orbits, MOFT, flow, temperature, friction)
  • Predictive friction models for bearings, rings, piston
Crankshaft and Piston
cranktrain-600-x-600-px-1

Advanced Features

Optimize crankshaft performance, durability, and powertrain system integration with advanced simulation tools designed for complex engine development workflows.

check mark icon

Fast & Robust ODE Integration

6 ODE integrators provide fast run times and implicit schemes suitable for stiff bending dynamics.

check mark icon

3D Crankweb Flexibility from FEA

Automatic extraction of equivalent beam compliances of crankwebs (for 3D bending) from 3D FEA static results.

check mark icon

Crankshaft Stress, Fatigue & Reliability Analysis

3D stress, fatigue, and crankshaft reliability analysis using 3D FEA unit-load stress recombination.

check mark icon

Elastomer Damper Modeling

Elastomer damper model based on Maxwell’s solid approach.

check mark icon

Time & Frequency Domain Analysis

Consistent treatments in both time and frequency domains.

check mark icon

Steady-State & Transient Simulation

Steady-state or transient simulations.

Cranktrain FAQs

Find answers to common Cranktrain simulation questions.

  • What types of crankshaft analysis does GT-SUITE support, and how do I choose the right one?

    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.

  • Can GT-SUITE assess crankshaft fatigue and durability, and does it support industry standards?

    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.

  • How does GT-SUITE handle the interaction between crankshaft flexibility and bearing performance?
    In 3D bending mode, the beam and bearing models are solved simultaneously as a fully coupled system. Crankshaft deflections and bearing eccentricities are computed together at every time step rather than in sequence. This coupling is important for accurate prediction of minimum oil film thickness, bearing loads, and friction, particularly in engines where shaft flexibility significantly influences bearing behavior.
  • Can the cranktrain model be connected to other engine and drivetrain systems in GT-SUITE?

    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.

Connect with an Expert

Ready to discuss how our Systems Simulation services can help your project? Fill out the form below and our team will get back to you within 1 business day.

Questions before you submit?

Email us at services@gammatech.com

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted by Gamma Technologies regarding our services. We respect your privacy and will not share your information with third parties. See our Privacy Policy for more details.