Numerical calibration of beam based on Operational Modal Analysis

Nowadays, monitoring of structures is of extreme importance, particularly to preserve and rehabilitate existing structures. One of the primary ways to do so would be to use non-destructive techniques. So, in order to identify the parameters of the existing structural elements, an operational modal analysis could be carried out by applying it onto responses recorded via sensors attached to key points on the element due to excitation using an impact hammer. For the current research, a concrete beam was constructed and was subjected to three-point bending load at successive ramps. At the end of each load cycle, the frequencies of the beam were extracted using the impact hammer and the responses were recorded using 6 sensors. Cracks started to appear on the beam after successive load cycles. Each of the responses have been analyzed using Operational Modal Analysis techniques to identify the modal parameters. A numerical model of the beam has been calibrated using the data extracted from the analysis.