This article presents a critical review of recent research done on crack identification and localization in
structural beams using numerical and experimental modal analysis. Crack identification and localization in beams
are very crucial in various engineering applications such as ship propeller shafts, aircraft wings, gantry cranes, and
Turbo machinery blades. It is necessary to identify the damage in time; otherwise, there may be serious
consequences like a catastrophic failure of the engineering structures. Experimental modal analysis is used to study
the vibration characteristics of structures like natural frequency, damping and mode shapes. The modal parameters
like natural frequency and mode shapes of undamaged and damaged beams are different. Based on this reason,
structural damage can be detected, especially in beams. From the review of various research papers, it is identified
that a lot of the research done on beams with open transverse crack. Crack location is identified by tracking
variation in natural frequencies of a healthy and cracked beam
Circular crack identification in plates based on natural frequency evaluation
