Vibration of thick curved shells, with particular reference to turbine blades

Abstract

The application of a new thick shell element is described with reference to vibration problems. The element is derived from the general isoparametric solid and therefore allows shear deformations to be included. It can take up highly distorted shapes and is useful in such studies as vibration of turbine blades for which it is superior to elements based on thin-shell theory. This element can also be used for thin shells with caution, excessive length/thickness ratios being avoided.