A New 3D Finite Element for Sandwich Beams With a Viscoelastic Core

A sandwich finite element for laminated steels is presented. It is based on a discrete displacement approach and allows for both symmetrical and unsymmetrical configurations. The three-layer sandwich model is built assuming a Timoshenko hypothesis for the viscoelastic core and Euler–Bernoulli hypotheses for the elastic faces, but the latter is modified to account for the rotational influence of the transversal shearing in the core. The validity and accuracy of the presented element are assessed through comparisons with numerical results of sandwich beams and sandwich rings with a variety of geometrical and mechanical properties and various boundary conditions. The present results are also compared with analytical, finite element, and experimental solutions for various boundary conditions.