Numerical and Experimental Modal Analysis of a 1-Stage Rocket Aerostructure

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a powerful tool which can aid in the engineering design process to reduce cost and time. However, it is best used in conjunction with experimental results through which its numerical results can be verified. This study focused on conducting a modal analysis of a rocket aerostructure using these two approaches. The resulting data was then compared to verify the accuracy of the numerical models. The results showed that the simulations only differed by 5%-16% depending on the component. Additionally, it showed that the numerical results would tend to overestimate the stiffness of structures. This trend was predictable as FEA models don't include any manufacturing or other variances. The simulations for all components were done through ANSYS software, and the experiment was done using the hammer tap test with laser vibrometers as sensors.