Crack detection method for step-changed non-uniform beams using natural frequencies

The current paper presents a technique to detect crack in non-uniform cantilever-type pipe beams, that have step changes in the properties of their cross sections, restrained by a translational and rotational spring with a tip mass at the free end. An equation for estimating the natural frequencies for the non-uniform beams is derived using the boundary and continuity conditions, and an equivalent bending stiffness for cracked beam is applied to calculate the natural frequencies of the cracked beam. An experimental study for a step-changed non-uniform cantilever-type pipe beam restrained by bolts with a tip mass is carried out to verify the proposed method. The translational and rotational spring constants are updated using the neural network technique to the results of the experiment for intact case in order to establish a baseline model for the subsequent crack detection. Then, several numerical simulations for the specimen are carried out using the derived equation for estimating the natural frequencies of the cracked beam to construct a set of training patterns of a neural network. The crack locations and sizes are identified using the trained neural network for the 5 damage cases. It is found that the crack locations and sizes are reasonably well estimated from a practical point of view. And it is considered that the usefulness of the proposed method for structural health monitoring of the step-changed non-uniform cantilever-type pipe beam-like structures elastically restrained in the ground and have a tip mass at the free end could be verified.