Verification of FEM modelling of composite materials based on the results of static strength test

Abstract

The article presents the verification of FEM modelling of composite materials based on the results of static strength test. The aim of the work was to examine whether the applied modelling of composite materials is correct and verify it with finite element method (FEM). The composite structure of the PW-6U glider was used as a model. In the program the numerical model (geometry and finite element mesh) of the glider’s wing was created. The wing is made of glass fabrics and a spar with flanges with a glass roving. The composite structure of the wing, including composition, layout and thickness of laminate layers, fiber arrangement was exactly modelled in the program and then subjected to loads. Having the measurements from the static strength tests of the glider, the numerical results were compared with the experimental results. Thanks to the applied modelling, the obtained numerical results were satisfactory and very close to the experimental results from the structural static tests of the glider. Therefore, it can be concluded that the conducted verification of FEM modelling of composite materials is correct. Nowadays application of composite materials is increasingly expanding. Therefore, the modelling of composites becomes a significant issue. FEM modeling allows verification of the structure. At the stage of modelling modifications can be implemented and thus time and costs associated with subsequent changes in the production process may be saved. This is a very good solution which already at the design stage of the structure allows examination of its strength.