Experimental Evaluation of Segmented Active Constrained Layer Damping Treatments

Abstract

The objective of this research is to demonstrate the effect of Active Constrained Layer segmentation on the enhancement of low frequency vibrations damping in flexible beams. The Active Constrained Layer Damping treatment, under consideration, consists of a viscoelastic layer sandwiched between two piezoelectric layers. The shear deformation of the viscoelastic layer causes loss of energy and thus the damping of vibration. This paper focuses on the effects of constraining layer segmentation. Experimental results obtained for slender beams partially treated with segmented and unsegmented Active Constrained Layer Damping treatments are presented. Tested specimens have low natural frequencies typical. e.g., for long span floors, moment frames, or flexible robotic manipulator arms. The performance of segmented and unsegmented treatments, as well as active and passive treatments are compared. The presented results demonstrate that significant improvement in Active Constrained Layer Damping treatment performance can be achieved by an appropriate segmentation of the constraining layer.