Axisymmetric Vibrations of Sandwich Spherical Shells having Cross-ply Laminated Faces

Abstract

This paper deals with axisymmetric vibrations of sandwich spherical shells having cross-ply laminated faces. Vibration analysis is carried out using the Ritz method. The expressions for the total strain and kinetic energies of the shells include the effect of transverse shear deformation of laminated faces and a core. Displacement functions satisfying boundary conditions are expressed as power series. The natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes of the shells are computed. The accuracy and validity of the present results are confirmed by convergence study and comparison with published data. The results of parametric study are discussed for sandwich spherical shells having different orthotropy ratios, thickness ratios and opening angles.