Modeling the Dynamic Properties of Multi-Layer Glass Fabric Sandwich Panels

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Structural Dynamics

Background:

• Sandwich panels are vital in lightweight structures but susceptible to vibrations from time-varying loads, impacting functionality.
• Accurate prediction of dynamic properties during the design phase is essential for structural integrity and performance.
• Understanding vibration characteristics is key to mitigating adverse effects in structural applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a finite element model for predicting the dynamic properties of glass fabric/phenolic resin sandwich panels.
• To validate the model through experimental comparison of natural frequencies and frequency response functions.
• To assess the model's accuracy in predicting the dynamic behavior of a cabinet structure composed of these panels.

Main Methods:

• Development of a finite element model using 2D quadrilateral isoparametric plane elements to represent panel structure details.
• Implementation of a model updating procedure based on experimentally determined frequency response functions.
• Experimental verification of a cabinet model constructed from the analyzed sandwich panels.

Main Results:

• The numerical model achieved an average relative error of 5.0% for natural frequencies compared to experimental data.
• The updated model demonstrated good accuracy in predicting the dynamic properties of the sandwich panels.
• The cabinet model exhibited an average relative error of 5.9% between numerical and experimental natural frequencies.

Conclusions:

• The finite element model provides a reliable tool for predicting the dynamic properties of phenolic resin sandwich panels.
• The model's accuracy is sufficient for design stage analysis, reducing the need for extensive physical prototyping.
• Validated dynamic analysis is crucial for optimizing the performance and reliability of lightweight structures utilizing sandwich panels.