Assessment of thermal effects on the free vibration characteristics of composite beams

In this study, thermal effects on the free vibration characteristics of composite beams are studied for different temperatures and boundary conditions by using numerical and experimental techniques. Different ply angles, stacking sequences and specimen thickness are also considered. The comparison revealed a good agreement between numerical and experimental results. It is also concluded that regardless of the type of boundary condition and thickness, natural frequencies are decreased with increasing temperature. In addition, a minimum natural frequency value occurs in the natural frequency-ply angle graph at 60 ply angle for all considered temperatures. It can also be stated that the natural frequencies of the composite beams can be adjusted by controlling the temperature as well as the stacking sequences. (orig.)