Numerical investigation of low-velocity impact in symmetric and asymmetric GFRP laminate with and without pre-crack

Abstract

Damage induced in symmetrical and asymmetrical glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminate overlow-velocity impact (LVI) using a mild steel impactor is investigated. Numerical simulation is done using 3-Dfinite element analysis software LS-DYNA. Orientations for symmetrical and asymmetrical laminate were [(0,90)/(+45,-45)/(+45,-45)/(0,90)//(90,0)/(+45,-45)/(+45,-45)/(90,0)] and [(0,90)/(+45,-45)/(+45,-45)/(0,90)//(+45,-45)/(90,0)/ (90,0)/(+45,-45)] respectively. Two samples each from symmetric and asymmetric laminate with and without pre-crack were numerically simulated. Induced circular pre-crack was modeled in the midplane of the laminate. A circular specimen of radius 75mm with clamped area of 376mm2 is modeled. The velocity of 5 m/sec was assigned to the hemispherical headed cylindrical impactor. The result shows that symmetrical laminates absorb high energy and damage area for it is 24.06 % less than asymmetrical laminate for laminate with pre-crack in mid plate. This study concluded symmetrical laminate design is better for structural purpose as compared to asymmetrical design. Results of proposed investigation are directly applicable in aircraft, automobiles and space equipment. Copyright © 2017 VBRI Press.