Static Load Response of Laminated Composite Stiffened Cylindrical Shell Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Laminated composites, a contemporary material, are widely used as a roofing option in civil engineering. They have benefits such as a lower weight-to-strength ratio, durability to harsh weather, and customizing options. However, researchers have expressed concern about the restricted transverse shear capacity, which can result in delamination under extreme strain, which is often confined inside the layers and eventually causes collapse. To overcome this, cylindrical shells are typically supplied with stiffeners to withstand static pressure deformation. There is a dearth of extensive research on the behaviour of laminated composite stiffened cylindrical shells under static loads in the existing literature. The purpose of the study is to investigate the behaviour of laminated composite stiffened cylindrical shells in terms of total deformation, maximum principal stress, and maximum principal strain caused by static pressure. On both simply supported and clamped two-ply laminated cylindrical shells, various stiffener sites are investigated. The stacking sequences are changed to compare the parameters mentioned. This study conducts a parametric investigation to draw engineering-relevant conclusions using ANSYS. According to the study's conclusion, the inclusion of differentially organized stiffeners results in a reduction in deformation, stress, and strain levels.