Dynamic analysis with point-masses of perforated pallet rack structural members by means of the Generalized Beam Theory

Abstract

This paper presents two different formulations for introducing point-masses into a dynamic problem using the Generalized Beam Theory (GBT) method. The first one implies placing a point-mass at a beam-node (with or without eccentricities) while the other implies placing a point-mass at a cross-section node. In order to evaluate the accuracy of such formulations, different modal analyses of members have been performed using GBT beam elements, shell elements and classical beam elements. The values of natural modal frequencies obtained through different models have been successfully compared. The results of various harmonic analyses are also presented. Some of the studied structural members include perforations. Finally, the influence of GBT modes and perforations when using point-masses is discussed.