Experimental and theoretical investigation of the linear and non-linear dynamic behaviour of a glare 3 hybrid composite panel

A theoretical model based on Hamilton's principle and spectral analysis is used to study the non-linear free vibration of hybrid composite plates made of Glare 3, a new aircraft structural material. It consists of alternating layers of metal- and fib re-reinforced composites. In previous work. the theoretical model has been used to calculate the first non-linear mode of fully clamped rectangular composite fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) laminated plates. This study concerns determination of the linear dynamic properties of the Glare 3 hybrid composite rectangular panel (G3HCRP) such as natural frequencies and mode shapes. The theoretical model is used to calculate the fundamental non-linear mode shape and associated flexural behaviour of the fully clamped G3HCRP, A series of experimental investigations have been conducted using a G3HCRP in order to determine linear dynamic properties. The response due to random excitation was investigated and the experimental measurements are analyzed and discussed. Comparisons are made with finite element predictions and response estimates given by the ESDU method, the latter being a "design guide" approach used by industry. Concerning the non-linear analysis, the results are given for various plate aspect ratios and vibration amplitudes. showing a higher increase of the induced bending stress near the clamps at large deflections. Comparisons between the dynamic behaviour of an isotropic plate and G3HCRP at large vibration amplitudes are presented and good results are obtained. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd.