Method and apparatus for balancing rotating components

Abstract

A method and apparatus for dynamically balancing a rotating component, such as a compressor wheel, without using an arbor is disclosed. A balancing fixture includes a nest for receiving the compressor wheel and is defined by a balancing surface on the balancing fixture. The balancing fixture is attached to a fixed support by flexures which permit tilting motion of the balancing fixture. Compressed air is communicated into an air manifold within the fixture and is communicated to the balancing surface through pressure jets to thereby support and position the compressor wheel on a cushion of compressed air. Motion of the balancing fixture is transmitted through a bracket to a pair of spaced-apart motion transducers. The motion transducers generate electrical signals which vary in response to a magnitude and direction of the tilting movement of the balancing fixture induced by unbalance of the rotating compressor wheel, and such signals are analyzed by a conventional vibratory analysis device in order to determine the amount and location of the unbalance of the compressor wheel being balanced.