Hot Spot Analysis of Composite Structures with Orthotropic Properties

Paper in proceeding, 2017

In this paper, the potential and limitations to a proposed methodology for finding hot spots in large and complex composite structures are explored. The methodology uses shell elements in combination with a stress recovery process to establish the full 3D stress tensor. These stresses can then be used in state of the art failure criteria for composite materials, in this case orthotropic NCF reinforced composite materials. The influences of laminate thickness and mesh resolution are studied and compared against results from an analytical model and a highly refined solid 3D model.