Detecting and Evaluating Defects in Beams by Correlation Coefficients

This research proposes a correlation coefficient for detecting and evaluating defects in beams, which brings about a positive outcome in terms of accuracy and efficiency. This parameter surpasses other parameters, such as natural frequency and damping coefficient, thanks to its sensitivity to structural changes. Our results show that although the damping coefficient had more variation than the natural frequency value in the same experiment, its changes were insufficient and unstable at different levels of defects. In addition, the proposed correlation coefficient parameter has a linear characteristic and always changes significantly according to increasing levels of defects. The results outweigh damping coefficient and natural frequency values. Furthermore, this value is always sensitive to measurement channels, which could be an important factor in locating defects in beams. The testing index is statistically evaluated by a normal distribution of the amplitude value of vibration measurement signals. Changes and shifts in this distribution are the basis for evaluating beam defects. Thus, the suggested parameter is a reliable alternative for assessing the defects of a structure.