Free frequencies and modal shapes of cylindrical vibrating composite structures

Abstract The aim of this research is to determine the free frequencies and vibration eigenmodes of cylindrical structures clamped at the ends, manufactured with composite materials by the filament winding technique, typical of vessels of aerospace vehicles. A simplified numerical model for the analysis of the flexural-torsional and in-plane dynamic behaviour has been set up. Two different procedures have been utilized and developed and a comparison of the convergence rate of both methods has been performed. Numerical values of relevant frequencies have been pointed out, which can influence the stability conditions of the aerospace vehicle containing cylindrical vessels. Also the dependence of the numerical results on the winding angle has been considered, which can be important for the design of the cylindrical composite structure.