Free vibrations of Mindlin plates using the finite element method: Part 1. Square plates with various edge conditions

This paper presents a parametric study of the free vibrations of square plates with various thickness‐to‐span ratios and different boundary conditions. The numerical analysis of these problems has been undertaken using the finite element method. In particular, a nine‐noded, quadrilateral Mindlin plate element has been adopted. The effects of rotatory inertia and shear deformation are included in this model. Results obtained by the finite element analysis are compared with results from various sources. It is suggested that this study might be used to supplement existing benchmark tests.