Modal analysis of small stones
Modal analysis of small stones
(OP)
I have been doing some work on a project involving the destruction of small(less than 1/4 inch diameter), irregular stones that are obstructing small tubes.
One avenue I wanted to explore was using acoustic energy to bash them. I was thinking that some analysis of these stones would be useful to figure out what frequency or frequencies would be most effective.
When I look around at companies that say they do modal analysis they seem to either be focused on FEA analysis, or experimental analysis of large structures like automobiles.
Can anyone point me in the right direction for a company or university that would be able to do experimental analysis on these stones? Or is there some fundamental reason why you can't perform this kind of analysis on these specimens (size, shape)?
Thanks!
One avenue I wanted to explore was using acoustic energy to bash them. I was thinking that some analysis of these stones would be useful to figure out what frequency or frequencies would be most effective.
When I look around at companies that say they do modal analysis they seem to either be focused on FEA analysis, or experimental analysis of large structures like automobiles.
Can anyone point me in the right direction for a company or university that would be able to do experimental analysis on these stones? Or is there some fundamental reason why you can't perform this kind of analysis on these specimens (size, shape)?
Thanks!





RE: Modal analysis of small stones
You might find that FE modelling is a better approach than a physical test.
Failing that I'd drop stones onto a large steel target and examine the acosutic signature.
Cheers
Greg Locock
New here? Try reading these, they might help FAQ731-376: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies http://eng-tips.com/market.cfm?
RE: Modal analysis of small stones
RE: Modal analysis of small stones
Tobalcane
"If you avoid failure, you also avoid success."
"Luck is where preparation meets opportunity"
RE: Modal analysis of small stones
The kidney stone approach is a really great comparison, but I wasn't able to find any papers that describe the effectiveness of different frequencies. I did find the following paper that seemed to be along the lines of what I'm looking for:
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Any idea of groups in the US who'd be working along the same lines?
FEA seems to be really popular, but these stones have varying compositions and densities so it would be very challenging to enter all the material properties. Experimental analysis of a selection of various stones would get me a range of frequencies (as Tobalcane said) to work with.
I've been doing compression strength testing already, and I've got a few weeks more to go to cover the range of stones. I'm lucky enough to work in R&D, where we get time to figure stuff out... ;)
RE: Modal analysis of small stones
Not really. You'd use some sort of automatic geometry and material generator to create each deck and run it.
However since you're happy to test the real thing instead then that will be more informative.
Cheers
Greg Locock
New here? Try reading these, they might help FAQ731-376: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies http://eng-tips.com/market.cfm?