Sandwich Beam Analysis

Abstract

A consistent theory of sandwich beams subjected to static load is presented. The theory is developed under the assumption that the Bernoulli’s hypothesis is valid for each lamina independently but not for the entire cross section as a whole. It is shown that the generalized displacement may be chosen in such a way that the set of equations governing the motions for which the beam remains straight on one, and a set of equations describing bending and shear types of motions on the other hand are independent. Furthermore, after some simple algebra, separate equations for each generalized displacement are derived. The normal stress is given in the from which is familiar from strength of materials with two additional terms embodying the influence of the cross-sectional distortion (deviation from classical beam theory).