Effects of different excitation mechanisms in machine tools when performing output-only modal analysis

Output-only Modal Analysis makes it possible to investigate the dynamic behaviour of machine tools, especially under process conditions. The differences between standstill and process state, which are important to be considered, result from process damping, gyroscopic moments of the rotating spindle, and changes in preloads and clearance in bearing and joints. Output-only Modal Analysis assumes a complete excitation of the structure by white noise characteristics. There are several mechanisms in a machine tool under process conditions that could cause a vibration response. Besides the cutting process itself, the movement of the NC-axes, as well as rotating fans of the control system and auxiliary units, can be excitation sources. This paper investigates to what extent several excitation mechanisms in machine tools fulfill the analysis assumption and in which way the identified modal parameters depend on the boundary conditions of the excitation characteristics.