Determination of the natural frequencies of transverse vibration for conveyor belts with orthotropic properties

A non-dimensional frequency parameter γ has been determined for each mode of vibration of plate-like structures with orthotropic properties. This parameter depends on the type of plate boundary, the plate rigidity and the aspect ratio. Expressions for γ are derived for plates with simple supports in the direction of the applied load and with clamped and free boundaries on the other edges. Values of γ are computed as a function of plate aspect ratio. From computer plots of γ(r), approximate expressions for γ are developed and applied to the calculation of modal frequencies of steel cord conveyor belts.