Damping Structural Resonances Using Viscoelastic Shear-Damping Mechanisms: Part II—Experimental Results

Abstract

This paper describes the experimental dynamic response characteristics of structural design configurations employing viscoelastic shear-damping mechanisms that have been discussed in a previous paper. Experimental results are given for cantilever beams fabricated from viscoelastic-damped sheet and structural shape members; results are also given for cantilever beams damped by use of the strip damper (an additive damping technique). The effects of shock excitation, steady-state vibration excitation, vibration excitation level, structure resonant frequency, and environmental temperature on the damping properties of the structural design configurations are demonstrated. The effects of structural damping on the performance of vibration isolation systems are determined and the significance of employing highly damped structural designs in fabrications intended for use in modern dynamic environments is discussed.