Effect of an Edge Crack on Static Deflection and Natural Frequency in a Composite Material Cantilever Beam

Abstract

The presence of cracks in composite materials poses a significant risk of catastrophic failure. Composites are used under diverse environmental conditions, and studying cracks helps estimate service life, ensuring durability. The composite material used in this project is MDF (Medium- Density Fibreboard). MDF is an engineered wood product known for its flexibility for curved surfaces, cost effectiveness, and knot-free composition, making it ideal for furniture, cabinets, and wall panels. The main aim of this work is to study the effect of an inclined edge crack on static deflection and natural frequency in a composite material cantilever beam, using finite element analysis. This includes examining the effect of crack parameters like location, relative crack depth, and crack inclination angle on the beam’s static deflection and natural frequencies of flexural vibrations. Studying static deflection provides insights into structural stability while exploring natural frequencies aids in predicting dynamic responses in a cracked cantilever beam.