Experimental Study of Segmented Constrained Layer Damping in Rectangular and Sinusoidal Beams

Abstract

In the aerospace engineering field, structures are constantly subjected to vibrations that are detrimental to the effectiveness and lifespan of the technology in use. In this work the performance of segmented constrained layer damping (SCLD) treatments for reducing vibration amplitudes is experimentally evaluated. In addition, two methods of manufacture and application are presented that employ 3D printed approaches. SCLD performance is evaluated by observing the bending response of cantilevered beams and the axial response of straight and sinuous springs. Measurements show that precise sample construction using a multi-jet modeling 3D printing approach and segment spacing based on a genetic optimization algorithm, leads to SCLD treatments that are effective for reducing vibration in cantilevered beams. Results also show that curved structures can also exploit SCLD treatments to enhance damping in axial springs, but that different algorithms for optimum segment size and spacing would be needed to create treatments that are tailored to the more complex spring structures.