Free Vibration Analysis of Anti-Symmetric Angle-Ply Laminated Shells Using a Modified Hyperbolic Shear Deformation Theory

PurposeUsing angle-ply laminates is prevalent in engineering advancements due to their enhanced mechanical specifications. Shells are common structural elements in various engineering applications and are often exposed to vibration conditions. It is necessary to analyze the shells under vibration conditions accurately for the safe design of a structure. Therefore, the free vibration behaviour of angle-ply laminated shells is presented in the current article using a new hyperbolic shearing strain function.MethodsThe modified hyperbolic shear deformation theory, which considers the hyperbolic pattern of the transverse shear strains across the shell thickness, is employed to capture more precise deformations in contrast to conventional theories. The mathematical model of the present problem is determined by Hamilton's principle. The laminated composite shell is modelled by considering layers with different fiber angles, allowing for a realistic representation of the material properties. Navier's solution method is employed to address the free vibration issue concerning the simply supported edges of the shell, ensuring precise fulfilment of the boundary conditions.ResultsTo validate the proposed theory, the obtained fundamental frequencies are rigorously analyzed with results from previously published theories and exact elasticity solutions, wherever applicable. This comparative analysis serves to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the developed model in forecasting the vibrational characteristics of the angle-ply laminated shells.ConclusionsThis study contributes to the knowledge of the vibrational characteristics of angle-ply laminated shells and demonstrates the efficacy of the hyperbolic shearing strain function in accurately capturing the shell deformations.