Modeling the dynamic interaction between machine tools and their foundations

The performance of a machine tool is directly influenced by the characteristics of the floor, subsoil, and their interaction with the installed machine. Installing a machine tool in its operational environment poses a distinct challenge that bridges mechanical and civil engineering disciplines. This interdisciplinary issue is often overlooked within the individual separate disciplines. However, effectively addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive understanding of mechanical and civil engineering principles. To address this problem, the present study proposes a method for improved modeling of the dynamic properties of the machine tool by considering the foundation and the subsoil on which it is installed. The method is based on finite element modeling. Linear models of the system components and the connections between them were used. These, supplemented with damping expressed by complex stiffness, made it possible to determine the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and frequency response functions (based on which the transmissibilities were obtained). Based on the experimentally verified models of vertical and horizontal lathes, the sensitivity analysis aimed at estimating the impact of changes in system parameters on vibration transmissibility for a floor-type and a block-type foundation was conducted. Thus, it was possible to identify those machine tool-support-foundation-subsoil system parameters that had the most significant impacts on the vibration's transmissibility. After analyzing the cases discussed, it became evident that the transmissibility of vibrations is primarily influenced by two key factors. First and foremost, the properties of the structural loop of the machine tool played a significant role. Additionally, the characteristics of the subsoil on which the foundation was situated emerged as a crucial determinant in the observed vibration transmissibility.