The purpose of the dynamics of machinery, or machine dynamics, is to apply the knowledge from the field of dynamics to specific problems in engineering. Its development is closely linked to developments in mechanical engineering. Dynamic problems are observed in power and work machines, and torsional vibrations play an important role in reciprocating engines, and bending vibrations put turbine components at risk.
Knowledge of the dynamics of machinery is not only required for explaining dynamic related phenomena, but it is also required for designing machines that are based on dynamic principles, such as hammers, robots, stemmers, oscillating conveyors, screens, vibrators, textile mandrils, centrifuges, etc. Dynamic problems have stepped into the foreground with the ever-increasing operating speed and the enforcement of lightweight design principles in all fields of processing machines, agricultural machines, machine tools, printing machines, and conveyors. To manage their multiplicity, it has became necessary to define and answer the basic questions, while abstracting as much as possible from any specific machine. In this way, dynamics of machinery has grown into an independent discipline that should be part of the tool set of every mechanical engineer.