Finite element scheme to analyze the vibration characteristics of the axisymmetric rotor system is developed. The rotor system of a large washer-extractor is analyzed as an example. Natural frequency obtained by FEM is in good agreement with experimental one by impact test. Also, parametric studies using FEM code developed are carried out for the investigation of the effects of the radii of the axis and the cylinder on the stiffness and the critical speed of the system. Larger radius of the axis makes the system stiffer and increases the critical speed at which the unbalance response has its maximum value. Whereas, the stiffness and the critical speed decrease at first and then increase as the radius of the cylinder increases.