Finite element analysis of free vibration of an annular plate

Abstract

It is necessary to keep the natural and operating frequencies far away from each other to avoid resonance. Hence determination of the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the structure attains prime importance. The present work deals with the study of free vibration analysis of annular plate subjected to a uniformly distributed load. Annular plate with inner edge fixed and outer edge free is considered for the analysis. Free vibration analysis is carried out using finite element analysis technique and the approximate theoretical frequencies of the structure are used for comparative study of the variation in vibration characteristics of the structure for various ratios of inner to outer radius conditions (i.e. Aspect ratio). The effect of thickness of the plate on the natural frequencies is also analyzed. An experimental work has been carried out for determining the natural frequencies of annular plate for two models and results obtained are compared with FEM results.