Finite element analysis of 2-D tubular braided composite based on geometrical models to study mechanical performances

Abstract

Tubular Braided Composites (TBC) have a higher strength to weight ratio than conventional materials and better mechanical properties compared to laminated composite materials. The optimization of the TBC and the introduction of new applications requires a comprehensive understanding of TBC’s behavior. One efficient way to study the behavior of TBC is using Finite Element Modeling (FEM). This paper will introduce a method for generating geometrical models with different patterns and variables. Micro Computed-Tomography ($\mu$CT) is also used for generating an actual 3-D model of a TBC. The geometrical model and the $\mu$CT models are visually compared. The geometrical model is inputted into the FEM software package and is studied in different conditions. Finally, the result of FEM is compared against experimental and analytical results.

Keywords:

• Composite material
• tubular braided composite
• open-mesh braided composite
• finite element analysis
• tensile test
• micro-computed tomography
• mechanical performances
• geometrical model
• periodic boundary condition
• unit-cell model

Acknowledgments

The author would like to acknowledge the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Canada RGPIN- 2018-05899. CMC Microsystems provided the software used in this study.

Disclosure statement

The author declares no conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship or publication of this article.

Data availability statement

The raw/processed data required to reproduce these findings cannot be shared at this time as the data also forms part of an ongoing study.

Supplementary material

TBC-Gen program is available in the following address: https://github.com/aligholamiYork/TBC-Gen.git.

Additional information

Funding

This work was funded by Canadian Network for Research and Innovation in Machining Technology, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.