Framework for a Combined Netting Analysis and Tsai-Wu-Based Design Approach for Braided and Filament-Wound Composites

Abstract

Axially symmetric fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures, such as pressure vessels and piping, are being widely used in different industrial applications where combined loading conditions may be applied. It is imperative to determine a suitable fiber angle, or a distribution of fiber angles, along the longitudinal direction of the structure in order to achieve best performance in terms of mechanical behavior and strength for structures subjected to combined loadings. To this end, an approach combining netting analysis and Tsai-Wu failure theory was employed as a design tool to assess critical fiber angles at which applied loadings would cause a structure to fail. Together, the proposed netting analysis and failure theory-based approach constitute a simple, expedient, and convenient design process for complex-shaped structures.