Using an enhanced constrained layer damping model to assess relative damping contributions

Abstract

Constrained layer damping (CLD) is an effective passive vibration control approach in which damping comes from the core layer’s deformation. In the most general sense, this deformation will include shear, longitudinal extension, and transverse compression deformations. In this work, new analytical models and their single-layer finite-element (FE) implementations are used to examine the dependence of these types of damping on the frequency and the core layer’s thickness for different boundary conditions. This information can be important in cases where a simplified model is needed with an acceptable error. The sandwich beam’s response is examined by using various tools in order to determine the important aspects of the model, with particular emphasis on the relative importance of each of the three types of damping. Then, frequency responses found using different single-layer finite elements are compared for different boundary conditions. By using both the analytical models and FE method results, guidance is provided on how to choose an appropriately simplified model or finite element for more practical analyses.