Practical Analysis of Laminated Composite Structures

Laminated composites are increasingly being used as structural materials in the automotive, aerospace and alternative energy industries. There is therefore a requirement for the simulation tools that are employed in those industries to provide capabilities for modelling laminated composite materials efficiently and effectively.

Laminated composites present particular challenges for the FE analyst: the simulation model needs to be constructed to include information on layup and orientations; the material constitutive models need to include anisotropy and, possibly, complex modes of damage & failure; and specific responses such as delamination may need to be taken into account.

The Seminar

This seminar briought together industrial practitioners with experience of modelling laminated composites using the commonly available analysis tools.

Case studies were presented which illustrated the application of various analysis techniques for laminated composites. These presentations highlighted the key decisions to be made in selecting the appropriate modelling methods, and also addressed the compromises and assumptions required in order to carry out efficient and effective analyses.

This seminar provided an opportunity for analysts to share experience in modelling laminated composites and allowed them to gain confidence in applying the modern analysis tools to typical composite simulation tasks.

Presentations

Overview of Analysis Challenges
Alan Prior, SIMULIA Europe

Successful Simulation of Composite Structures using FEA
Laurence Vaughn, Frazer-Nash Consultancy

The Challenges of Modelling Composites in Turbomachinery
Matthew Jevons, Rolls-Royce plc.

Formula 1 Impact Structure Design and Analysis without an F1 Budget: A Pragmatists Approach
Tim Gulland, Fluidform Design Ltd.

An Overview of the Current Strategies Employed in the Analysis of F1 Composite Structures and Future Simulation Requirements
Steve Davis, McLaren Racing Ltd.

Practical Challenges in the Analysis of Large Composite Aerospace Structures
Nigel Pready, Airbus

Important Issues in Modelling the Response and Failure of Fibre-reinforced Composites
Michael Wisnom, Advanced Composites Centre for Innovation and Science, University of Bristol