Modal Analysis for Revision of a Fem Model of a Steel Truss Beam

Abstract

Abstract. The paper deals with a preparation of a complex FEM model for a local damage detection. The initial verified and validated three-dimensional FEM model of a steel truss bridge in laboratory is revised step-by-step to achieve the accurate model according to the experimental model. The emphasis is on modelling of the joints with 4 rivets and modelling of correct boundary conditions, as well as mass parameters and cross-section dimensions.A modal analysis of the structure is performed in FEM software. Many experimental measurements were made to correctly revise the FEM model. The calculated natural frequencies are compared with the measured ones. In addition, mode-shapes from the calculation are validated with the measured mode-shapes. The difference between the prepared FEM model and the measured specimen is small enough after a few steps of tuning. The verified, validated and revised numerical model can be used in future for a local damage detection.