Vibration Analysis of a multi core sandwich composite beam with cutouts—A critical investigation

Abstract

The prime objective of this research work is focused on assessing the dynamic characteristics of a multi core sandwich composite beam with cutouts.The effect of introducing additional cores in sandwich beams is investigated in detail along with various geometric configurations. Also, the impact of placing multiple cutouts with assorted geometric profiles (Circular, Square, Hexagon and Triangular) in a sandwich structure is also addressed in detail. Finite element technique is deployed for numerical analysis and parametric studies. In addition, the influence of reinforcements in the proposed structure is also presented. From the results, it is evident that square cutouts possess the highest damping capability irrespective of geometric position of its placement. Also, it may be concluded that the geometric position of placing cutoutssignificantly influences the magnitude of frequency levels ranging to maximum of 42% hike at lower modes.Moreover, introduction of cutouts leads to reduction in frequency levels for all the cases up to 20%. Furthermore, secondary investigation of multicore reinforced sandwich beams experiences a maximum reduction in frequency of about 15%.

Keywords

• dynamic analysis
• finite element method
• cutouts
• sandwich beams
• free vibration
• natural frequency