Evaluation of Laminated Composite Beam Theory Accuracy

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Structural Analysis

Background:

• Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) is crucial for lightweight, rigid structures in electric vehicles and aircraft.
• Composite I-beams are essential components for load-bearing applications.
• Existing theoretical models for CFRP I-beams require validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To verify the accuracy of theoretical solutions for deflection and stress in composite beams.
• To establish the accuracy range for theoretical composite beam analysis.
• To investigate the impact of fiber orientation on beam rigidity.

Main Methods:

• Development of a theoretical model for superimposed composite I-beams.
• Application of two-dimensional composite beam and composite plate theories.
• Validation using a finite element analysis (FEA) model.

Main Results:

• Theoretical solutions show improved accuracy for composite beams with an aspect ratio > 15.
• Placing 0° ply on the outermost layer of a non-symmetric beam increases effective rigidity by 4-5% compared to symmetric beams.
• The study defines the accuracy range for theoretical solutions in composite beam analysis.

Conclusions:

• Theoretical models provide accurate deflection and stress analysis for CFRP I-beams under specific conditions (aspect ratio > 15).
• Fiber orientation significantly influences the effective rigidity of composite beams.
• This research provides a basis for reliable theoretical analysis of composite beam structures.