Method for Calculating the Counterweight Mass of a Crank-and-Rod Mechanism

A method for calculating the counterweight mass of a crank-and-rod mechanism for designing a piston drive or pump is proposed. The method provides a rational combination of mass, overall dimensions, and values of wear and power loss in the bearing with maximum balance. Calculations are carried out using the MathCAD software. The optimal ranges of the parameters are given. The criterion for the best balance of the crank-and-rod mechanism is introduced to calculate the counterweight mass. Determinations of displacements, velocities, accelerations, and reaction forces are based on d’Alembert’s principle in vector form for each moment in time.