Experimental Modal Testing Considerations for Finite Element Model Correlation

There are many issues pertaining to the correlation of finite element models with data from an experimental modal test. Topics such as model reduction, model expansion, testing techniques employed and correlation tools utilized are all important issues to the success of the correlation process. This particular paper addresses some of the pertinent issues of experimental testing techniques and the development of the experimental modal model from measured data. While all possible conditions to study is impossible, the more common problems which produce the greatest source of errors is addressed.