Vibrations of complete spherical shells with imperfections

Numerous theoretical investigations on the natural frequencies for complete spherical shells have been reported over the past four decades. However attempts at correlating the theoretical results with either experimental or simulated results (both for axisymmetric and nonaxisymmetric modes of vibration) are almost completely lacking. In this paper natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained from axisymmetric and nonaxisymmetric theories of vibration of complete spherical shells and from finite element computer simulations of the vibrations, with and without geometrical imperfections, are presented. Modal tests reported elsewhere on commercially available, thin spherical marine floats (with imperfections) are then utilized as a basis for comparison of frequencies to both the theoretical and numerical results. Because of the imperfections present, "splitting" of frequencies pf nonaxisymmetric modes is anticipated. The presence of this frequency splitting phenomenon is demonstrated. In addition, results of a "whole field" measurement on one of the imperfect shells using dynamic holography are presented.