Structural FEA of Laminated Composite Beam-Columns

Project Overview

This project utilized Finite Element Analysis (FEA) within ANSYS Workbench to investigate the structural response of laminated composite beam-columns. The study involved detailed modeling of anisotropic material properties, exploring the influence of various ply stacking sequences and material layups on overall structural performance. Multiple load cases were simulated, including transverse bending to assess deflection and stress distribution, and axial compression to determine critical buckling loads. Principles of Classical Lamination Theory (CLT) were applied to understand complex bending-stretching coupling effects, particularly the role of the B-matrix in non-symmetric laminates. The analysis produced detailed insights into how varying laminate configurations impact bending stiffness, ultimate strength, and buckling resistance across a range of operating conditions. This work demonstrated a robust methodology for predicting the mechanical behavior of advanced composite structures, highlighting the importance of tailored material design for optimized performance and failure prevention in critical applications.