CLD Estimator
Estimate composite system loss factor for free-layer and constrained-layer damping treatments.
Structural damping treatments reduce vibration amplitude and settling time in optomechanical mounts, mirror cells, and breadboard substructures. This tool estimates the composite system loss factor η_c for two damping configurations. Free-Layer Damping bonds a viscoelastic material (butyl rubber, neoprene, or Sorbothane) directly to the base structure; the RKU equation computes η_c from the modulus ratio and thickness ratio of the two layers. Constrained-Layer Damping (CLD) sandwiches a soft viscoelastic core between the base and a stiff constraining layer (e.g., steel over 3M ISD-112 over aluminum), forcing shear in the core under flexural vibration; η_c is estimated via the Kerwin shear parameter model. Outputs include composite loss factor, quality factor Q, and mass increase relative to the bare base structure.