Comparisons of measured modal properties with finite element analysis predictions for a composite slab floor

Floor vibration serviceability is a primary design consideration for steel framed composite floors. The accuracy of any floor vibration evaluation procedure depends on a reasonably accurate prediction of modal properties. To consider multiple modes, a procedure must also accurately predict the spacing of modal frequencies. The goal of this paper is to investigate the ability of current finite element modeling techniques to accurately predict these modal properties. A composite floor slab was vibration tested to determine its natural frequencies, mode shapes, and accelerance frequency response functions. Analytical predictions were made using a commercially available finite element modeling program. The measured and predicted properties are compared to assess the accuracy of the modeling techniques.