Experimental Modal Analysis of a Half-Scale Model Twin-Engine Aircraft Rear Fuselage Engine Mount Support Frame

Abstract

Experimental modal testing using an impact hammer is a commonly used method for obtaining the modal parameters of any structure for which the vibrational behavior is of interest. Natural frequencies and associated mode shapes of the structure can be extracted directly from measured FRFs (Frequency Response Functions) through various curve fitting procedures. This paper provides an overview of the modal testing conducted on an aerospace component. Testing set-up, experimental equipment and the methodology employed are all described in detail. Further validation of the testing procedure was done by ensuring that the experimental results satisfy the requirements of repeatability, reciprocity and linearity. The relevant ISO standard has been referenced and important concepts to modal analysis are expanded upon. Recorded natural frequencies, coherence and a description of the observed mode shapes are presented along with notable trends.