“Computational Design and Vibration Analysis of Cruciform Specimens for High-Cycle Fatigue Testing”

Abstract:

This study focuses on the design and analysis of a cruciform-shaped specimen intended for high-cycle fatigue testing, with the primary objective of using computational methods to identify the specimen’s natural frequencies and mode shapes under various material and geometric configurations. The geometry of the cruciform specimen is first modeled using CATIA software, followed by vibration behavior simulations using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in ANSYS. This computational approach allows the study to explore the dynamic properties of the cruciform structure, taking into account variations in materials such as cast iron, steel, and aluminum, as well as changes in geometric parameters like the length, width, and depth of the specimen’s columns. By performing modal analysis, the study identifies how the specimen’s frequency response and associated mode shapes are influenced by these factors, providing insights into the suitability of different configurations for high-cycle fatigue testing.

The analysis utilizes a block Lanczos approach to solve the eigenvalue problem, allowing for an accurate determination of the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the cruciform specimen. The results of these simulations are validated through theoretical calculations, demonstrating the relationship between material properties, geometry, and natural frequency. The findings reveal that by adjusting the geometry and material of the specimen, it is possible to attain the required frequency range necessary for effective high-cycle fatigue testing. Based on these results, the model that best matches the desired frequency range is selected for further physical testing. This research emphasizes the critical role of computational tools in optimizing structural designs for fatigue testing, offering a solid foundation for future studies in high-cycle fatigue analysis and testing.

Aim:

The primary goal of this study is to design and analyze a cruciform-shaped specimen specifically intended for high-cycle fatigue testing, focusing on the impact of material and geometric variations on its natural frequencies and mode shapes. Using computational methods, the research involves simulating the vibration behavior of the specimen through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in ANSYS, with geometry modeled in CATIA. Different materials, such as cast iron, steel, and aluminum, are considered, along with geometric alterations to the specimen’s dimensions, including the length, width, and depth of the columns. By performing modal analysis, the study seeks to determine how these factors influence the specimen’s dynamic properties, particularly its natural frequencies, which are crucial for ensuring the specimen’s suitability for high-cycle fatigue testing. The findings aim to optimize the specimen’s design, ensuring it can withstand the stresses of fatigue testing while maintaining structural integrity and performance.

Objectives:

This study aims to model the geometry of a cruciform-shaped fatigue specimen using CATIA software, followed by performing a comprehensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in ANSYS. The focus is on conducting modal analysis to determine the specimen’s natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes. This process allows for a deeper understanding of how different materials, such as cast iron, steel, and aluminium, influence the dynamic characteristics of the specimen. By examining various materials, the study seeks to identify which material provides the best performance in terms of vibration response and fatigue resistance. Furthermore, the impact of geometric parameters, such as the length, width, and depth of the specimen’s arms, is explored to assess how these factors affect the specimen’s overall vibration behavior and suitability for high-cycle fatigue testing.

In addition to material and geometric variations, the study uses the Block Lanczos method to solve the eigenvalue problem and validate the results through theoretical calculations, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the computational models. The findings from these simulations will help identify the optimal material and geometry combination that aligns with the necessary frequency range for high-cycle fatigue testing. This work not only lays the groundwork for future experimental studies but also provides insights for structural design optimizations in fatigue analysis, contributing to the development of more reliable and efficient fatigue testing specimens. Ultimately, this research enhances the understanding of dynamic properties in high-cycle fatigue testing, offering valuable information for improving testing methods and specimen designs.

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