In-Situ Modal Response Characterization of Pipe Structures Through Reynolds Number Variation

Abstract

The modal response characterization of structures is a proven and reliable technique used to monitor system behavior and change, providing information for condition assessment and damage identification. In traditional modal response characterization procedures, an external mass excitation source is used to excite the system, and this is modeled as an impact function. This provides system forcing across a broad range of frequencies. In this investigation, an in-situ method of system excitation is explored. The modal characteristics of externally-supported pipe structures are investigated by varying the flow Reynolds number (Red). Given the increase in flow turbulence with Reynolds number, hydrodynamic pressure fluctuations on the pipe wall provide a varying excitation source. This removes the requirement for an external excitation source. A comparative analysis of data sets collected for both Acrylic and ABS pipe material show similar pressure spectra, while vibration spectra change significantly. Pressure spectra reveal a character whereby the spectral energy increases with increasing Reynolds number. A comparison of in-situ results to those obtained using traditional impact response tests show that vibration spectra collected through Reynolds number variation successfully capture the modal characteristics of the pipe-structure.