The effects of ambient temperature variations on structural dynamic characteristics

The precise and detailed characterization of the dynamic response of structures has become increasingly important in recent years. As a consequence, the accuracy of experimental data, which is often used to validate and update finite element models, has become extremely important. However, as researchers have attempted to identify and quantify sources of error in the experimental modal analysis (EMA) process, an important potential error source has been largely overlooked. Instabilities in the dynamic response of structures due to small variations in test environmental conditions may result in significant errors in experimental and analytical results, leading to erroneous and/or misleading conclusions.

This thesis presents an experimental and analytical investigation of the effects of ambient temperature variations on the dynamic characteristics of a thin, square steel plate. The modal properties of the plate with two different boundary conditions and at temperatures above and below standard room temperature are examined. In addition, an analytical model is developed accounting for the effects of temperature-dependent material properties. Results indicate that natural frequencies and damping are significantly affected by changes in temperature. In the case of the natural frequency variations, the temperature-dependence of Young's modulus is the dominant factor, but boundary condition effects may also be important. Also, FRF magnitudes at spectral lines close to the resonances are very sensitive to temperature. Finally, only minor variations in the plate response shapes are observed, although significant changes in the imaginary component of the velocity field are evident.