The purpose of this research is to show that wavelets are mathematical tools capable of separating vibration data into different frequency components, allowing the study of each component with a resolution matched to its specific time scale. Wavelets have advantages over traditional Fourier methods, particularly when a signal contains sharp spikes, discontinuities, and transients.
This paper presents a brief description of wavelets and shows their application to the analysis of typical transient signals due to vibrations in a steel‐reinforced concrete beam.
The research clearly shows that it is possible to evaluate modes and components separately by using the wavelet analysis.
The beam analysed can be used as a simple model of other more complicated structures, such as bridges and other high scale civil engineering constructions, where vibration analysis is a key issue for maintenance and failure assessments, thus representing an alternative mathematical tool for condition monitoring.
