Mechanical modeling of helical structures accounting for translational invariance. Part 2 : Guided wave propagation under axial loads

► A semi-analytical FE formulation is proposed for axially loaded helical waveguides. ► We take advantage of translational invariance thanks to twisting coordinates. ► The 3D elastodynamic problem is reduced to a 2D model posed on the cross-section. ► The contact area increases with loads and modifies the veering frequency of strands. ► Numerical results are confirmed by experimental data for prestressed strands.