Vibration Analysis of a Timoshenko Beam with Transverse Open Crack by Finite Element Method

Abstract

The design of structures and machineries in present days are based on optimizing of multi-objectives such as maximum strength, maximum life, minimum weight and minimum cost. Due to this flexiblity they allow having a very high level of stresses. This leads to development of cracks in their elements. Due to long-term service many engineering structures may have structural defects such as cracks. So it is very much essential to know the property of structures and response of such structures in various cases. In this article the natural frequencies and mode shapes of an uncracked and cracked cantilever Timoshenko beam is studied by using finite element method (FEM) and MATLAB programme. The effect of crack on the natural frequencies of the uncracked and cracked Timoshenko beam is studied.