Dynamic Flywheel Balancing

This page shows how to dynamically balance a wheel or flywheel with no tools or electronics.

Safety first: Be sure to observe all normal safety precautions. Operate at safe speeds. Do not allow weights to fly off of the wheel. No loose clothing. Check the integrity of the wheel. Etc. 

1) Mark 3 approximately equally spaced locations for weights on the rim of the flywheel. Label the counterweight locations 1, 2 and 3 (in any order). Prepare ~20 counter weights of approximately equal weight.

Weights in
Pocket 1
Weights in
Pocket 2
Weights in
Pocket 3
Wobble
Rating

2) Attach counterweights with the quantities shown in the first line in the above dialog. Count carefully and make sure the weights go in the proper locations. Do not use more than 10 weights at any one of the three locations.

3) Spin the flywheel. Each time you spin during balancing, spin at approximately the same speed.

4) Rate the wobble on a scale of 0 (none) to 9 or more (much). The unit of your scale of wobble is not important but consistency between each test is important. Make sure you estimate the amount of wobble as accurately as possible. If you have a way to measure wobble, that’s better – for example using an inexpensive laser pointer reflected from a small mirror attached to whatever the flywheel is attached to. Follow the precautions that come with the laser.

5) Enter your wobble rating in the blue box and click the Balance button. Repeat from step 2 until you find the minimum wobble. It usually takes about 10 to 15 cycles thru the steps to complete the balancing. If the changes in weights are more than one after 15 cycles, stop, re-read these instructions carefully and then continue where you left off (or start over).

Congratulations! Your flywheel or wheel is now dynamically balanced!


Dynamic Balancing Flywheel Tips

You can also dynamically balance using the  honeycomb map. Try a few random counterweight configurations per the map – the 3 digits correspond to the number of weights at locations 1, 2, and 3. Print the map and mark on the map the amount of wobble for each tested combination. Gradually zero in on the best area of the map to explore for the least wobble. For example, if you have equal wobble at 770, 000 and 700 there is a good chance you will have minimal wobble at 420.

balance

Ideally you should should use both methods together – use the first method above but document the combinations and wobble on the map.

Dynamic Balancing Disclaimer

eMachineShop and anyone connected with us, in any way whatsoever, are not responsible for your use of this information. EMACHINESHOP EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO THE ACCURACY OF ANY THE CONTENT PROVIDED, OR AS TO THE FITNESS OF THE INFORMATION FOR ANY PURPOSE.

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