Free vibration analysis of sandwich beams using improved dynamic stiffness method

Abstract In this paper, free vibration of three-layered symmetric sandwich beam is investigated using dynamic stiffness and finite element methods. To determine the governing equations of motion by the present theory, the core density has been taken into consideration. The governing partial differential equations of motion for one element contained three layers are derived using Hamilton’s principle. This formulation leads to two partial differential equations which are coupled in axial and bending deformations. For the harmonic motion, these equations are combined to form one ordinary differential equation. Closed form analytical solution for this equation is determined. By applying the boundary conditions, the element dynamic stiffness matrix is developed. They are assembled and the boundary conditions of the beam are applied, so that the dynamic stiffness matrix of the beam is derived. Natural frequencies and mode shapes are computed by the use of numerical techniques and the known Wittrick–Williams algorithm. After validation of the present model, the effect of various parameters such as density, thickness and shear modulus of the core for various boundary conditions on the first natural frequency is studied.