Full-Field Displacement and Strain Measurement of a Rotating Propeller Using 3D Digital Image Correlation and FEM Analysis

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive experimental and numerical investigation of a rotating propeller using three-dimensional Digital Image Correlation (3D DIC), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis. The main objective was to assess the applicability and accuracy of 3D DIC for full-field displacement and strain measurements under centrifugal loading conditions. The propeller geometry was reconstructed using 3D scanning and implemented in a numerical model with material parameters identified through mechanical testing. Experimental measurements were carried out on a dedicated test stand, enabling controlled rotational speed and synchronized image acquisition. Particular attention was devoted to measurement uncertainty, including calibration errors, motion effects, and coordinate system alignment. The obtained displacement and strain fields were compared with FEM predictions after proper spatial transformation for rotational speeds of 4110, 6045, and 6940 rpm. The results demonstrate good agreement between numerical and experimental data in selected regions, confirming the potential of 3D DIC for validation of rotating structures, while also highlighting limitations related to dynamic effects and optical constraints.