Characterization and Finite Element Modeling of Unidirectional Non-Crimp Fabric for Composite Manufacturing

Abstract:

A hybrid finite element discrete mesoscopic approach is proposed to model the forming of composite parts using a unidirectional glass prepreg non-crimp fabric (NCF). The tensile behavior of the fabric is represented using 1-D beam elements, and the shearing behavior is captured using 2-D shell elements. The material is characterized using tensile and shear frame tests. These properties are then incorporated into an ABAQUS/Explicit finite element model via user-defined material subroutines. The shear frame characterization test is simulated using a finite element model of the fabric, and the finite element results are compared to experimental data as a validation of the methodology. The thermostamping of a double-dome geometry, which has been used in an international benchmarking program, is modeled as a demonstration of the capabilities of the proposed methodology.

• Periodical: Key Engineering Materials (Volumes 504-506)
• Pages: 225-230
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/KEM.504-506.225
• Online since: February 2012
• Authors: Alexander Petrov, James A. Sherwood, Konstantine A. Fetfatsidis
• Keywords: Composite, Finite Element, Non Crimp Fabric (NCF)

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