Natural frequencies of bars with variable cross-sections

Abstract

This paper presents the possibility of determining the natural frequency of flexural bars treated as Bernoulli-Euler beams using the Rayleigh method. It is assumed that the shape of the bar axis during vibration is the same as the shape of the deflection line of this bar under continuous load. By comparing the potential energy in the deflected position with the kinetic energy in the undeflected position, it is possible to determine the frequency and period of natural vibration as a function of Young's modulus and material density, as well as the parameters describing the geometric shape of the bar. Examples of solutions for truncated cone and truncated wedge-shaped bars are shown, as well as a solids of revolution with the generatrix described by linear and curvilinear (parabolic, exponential) forms. It applies to both solid and hollow bars, and different types of fixing the ends of the bar. The accuracy of the obtained results (compared with the literature and with the results of FEM calculations) is sufficient for practical applications. The authors also showed the possibility of extending the method to higher frequencies of vibration.