Numerical Simulations of the Low-Velocity Impact Response of Semicylindrical Woven Composite Shells

Abstract

This paper presents an efficient and reliable approach to study the low-velocity impact response of woven composite shells using 3D finite element models that account for the physical intralaminar and interlaminar progressive damage. The authors’ previous work on the experimental assessment of the effect of thickness on the impact response of semicylindrical composite laminated shells served as the basis for this paper. Therefore, the finite element models were put to the test in comparison to the experimental findings. A good agreement was obtained between the numerical predictions and experimental data for the load and energy histories as well as for the maximum impact load, maximum displacement, and contact time. The use of the mass-scaling technique was successfully implemented, reducing considerably the computing cost of the solutions. The maximum load, maximum displacement, and contact time are negligibly affected by the choice of finite element mesh discretization. However, it has an impact on the initiation and progression of interlaminar damage. Therefore, to accurately compute delamination, its correct definition is of upmost importance. The validation of these finite element models opens the possibility for further numerical studies on of woven composite shells and enables shortening the time and expenses associated with the experimental testing.

Effect of Cohesive Properties on Low-Velocity Impact Simulations of Woven Composite Shells

“…This paper aims to study the effect of the cohesive properties on the numerical predictions of low-velocity impact events on woven-fabric composite shells. This work is based on the FE modelling strategy presented in [16] and the experimental testing performed in [2]. The ABAQUS/Explicit [17] VUMAT subroutine specifically designed for fabric-reinforced composites was used to capture the intralaminar damage [18].…”

Damage mechanisms in composite laminated shells subjected to multiple impacts at different points

“…33,34 Furthermore, the curves show a profile that agrees with others reported in the literature for similar semicylindrical composite shells. [25][26][27][28]35,36 In more detail, Figure 2 shows an increase in the impact force until it reaches a maximum value, peak force, followed by a somewhat abrupt decrease, depending on the point of impact. Conversely, the energy-time curves represented…”

“…Finally, to prove the validity of the analysis presented, a static numerical study was performed using 3D finite element (FE) models. These FE models were developed based on the approach and material properties outlined in, 25,27,28 along with the geometric parameters of the impactor and composite shell specimens depicted in Figure 1. Additionally, the boundary conditions imposed F I G U R E 3 Energy history curves obtained for the first impact at the various impact points.…”

“…This research not only aids in designing resilient structures but also contributes to the development of predictive models and simulation tools, enabling engineers to assess the structural response of curved composite shells and enhance the overall safety and performance of these components in diverse engineering applications. However, based on the various studies available in the literature, 18,19,[25][26][27][28] they essentially analyze the impact response of semi-cylindrical composite shells when impacted at the same point. Nevertheless, daily experience shows that in most situations composite structures suffer repeated impacts in different positions due, for example, to hailstorms or particle impacts (among others).…”

Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Damage Resistance Characteristics of Woven E-Glass/Epoxy Composite Laminates Subjected to Drop-Weight Impacts

“…The shape of the impactor has a considerable effect on the extent of damage induced in composite laminates during impacts at low velocity [15]. A considerable reduction in computational costs was achieved by implementing the mass-scaling method in the numerical analysis of the impact response of semicylindrical woven composite shells [16]. In the past, impact damage models relied on either analytical calculations or extensive experimental data.…”