Defect detection of composite honeycomb structure by vibration analysis technique

Abstract

In the present study we have analyzed the effect of various defects occur in the honeycomb composite beam. Mechanical performance of honeycomb beam is characterized by using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and by utilizing Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analyzer for the various modes of vibration. Artificial voids/defects are generated in the composite honeycomb beam in the percentage of 10, 15 and 20 respectively and FFT analyzer is utilized to identify faults in a defected structure. Results obtained show that, natural frequency of beam goes on decreasing due to increase in the percentage defect. Mechanical performance of honeycomb beam is characterized by using FEA for the various modes of vibration by considering honeycomb beam as the cantilever beam. In further analysis, filler material such as polypropylene is filled in the defects and the results are compared with the healthy/defect free honeycomb beam which may be used in the various aviation applications.