Dynamic response evaluation due to construction system modification of 155 m barge ship using finite element method

The application of lightweight sandwich material as a ship structure was an innovative breakthrough that provided an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. In the sandwich application process, the proposed structural design and scantling must be designed according to the equivalent strength requirement with low weight compared to the existing structure. The research aims to evaluate the dynamic response of different construction systems of barge ships due to applying various hybrid sandwich types in the deck, ship hull, and bottom structures using the current Lloyd's Register standard. A total of three proposed construction systems: longitudinal, transverse and mixed framing systems, are investigated under different plate configurations, material types, and scantling sizes. The numerical-based finite element approach is used to evaluate dynamic properties of natural frequency and mode shape using free vibration analysis at low mode numbers. The finite element result from the dynamic characteristic and weight reduction estimation between the existing structure and the proposed construction systems under various plate configurations, material types, and scantling sizes is evaluated to determine the application of lightweight sandwich panels in the barge structure.