Mode shapes and frequencies by finite element method using consistent and lumped masses

Abstract The rate of convergence of the mode shapes and frequencies by the finite element method using consistent and lumped mass formulations has been established. Simple examples are given to demonstrate the results. It has been found that for a system of differential equations of second order such as the equations of equilibrium in terms of displacement in the theory of elasticity, membrane etc., a proper lumped mass formulation will not suffer any loss of rate of convergence utilizing simple elements. However, in the case of higher order differential equations or when the use of more complicated elements is required or desired, a consistent mass formulation often will provide a better rate of convergence.