Fundamental frequencies of composite rectangular plates with different cut-outs

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the effects of various parameters on the fundamental frequency of a rectangular laminated composite plate with different shape of cutout (i.e. elliptical, rectangular and diamond shaped cutout). The shape and size of the cutout, fiber-orientation angle and boundary condition of the rectangular plate are considered parameters in the present study. Modal analysis was performed using finite element analysis to determine the fundamental frequency. The model has been validated using the published results. Fully clamped plate possesses the highest and cantilever plate possesses the lowest fundamental frequency. Plate with diamond shaped cutout shows the lower frequency than the plate with elliptical and rectangular cutout. The effect of fiber orientation angle depends on the boundary condition of the plate. As the cutout area increases, the fundamental frequency also increases, but for cantilever boundary, there is an inverse effect.