Free vibration analysis of FGM beam by numerical analysis

The dynamic behaviour of a cantilever beam made of functionally graded material (FGM) under free vibration conditions is investigated numerically using the finite element program ABAQUS. Initial displacement is applied to the cantilever beam’s free end, resulting in vibration. Functionally graded material properties vary constantly in the thickness direction. The idea is to build a composite material by changing the microstructure along a certain gradient from one material to another, allowing the material to benefit from the various layers. This study analyzes the natural frequencies and mode shapes of a cantilever beam made from two distinct materials: FGM and structural steel. FGM beams showed enhanced natural frequency and decreased displacement under free vibration conditions, indicating that the beams made of FGM are stiffer and possess higher resistance against vibration. In higher modes, FGM beams are performing better against torsional displacements when compared to steel beams.