A SHORTHAND STRENGTH ANALYSIS IN SIMCENTER 3D TO PREDICT THE FIRST-PLY FAILURE TEST LOADS IN CASE OF FOUR POINT BENDING LAMINATE COUPONS

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe a shorthand strength analysis procedure carried out with the help of Simcenter 3D and intended to predict the first-ply failure test loads for two distinct CFRP laminate layup configurations (i.e. an off-axis [4512]T and a symmetrically balanced cross-ply [453/-453]S), both subjected to four-point bending. The results are compared against the experimental test data reported in literature and also with those obtained in the present work based on linear FEA performed in Simcenter 3D using layered shell elements with the appropriate boundary conditions. A special emphasis is put on the use of Laminate Modeler module for composites simulation in Simcenter 3D, provided that it allows a straightforward definition of fibre-reinforced laminate composites, an affordable assignment of laminate properties to the coupons being virtually tested and also a quick and easily evaluation of the laminate’s capability to withstand the applied loads prior to run the FE solution. Finally, some comments and valuable conclusions will be presented on the accuracy of results with respect to effectiveness of the aforementioned assessment approaches as well as the related key modeling parameters.