Numerical simulation of mechanical properties of composite high-pressure vessel for space application

Abstract

Abstract A composite high-pressure vessel reinforced with T1000 carbon fiber and featuring an ultra-thin titanium lining for space applications is examined. Using the laminated plate theory for composite materials and the elastic-plastic theory for isotropic materials, a three-dimensional finite element model is developed. The pressure test results confirm the correctness of the finite element model. Under various internal pressure circumstances, the displacement and strain distribution of the metal liner and the laminated composite are compared and analyzed. It is shown that the composite vessel primarily deforms along the axial direction when the internal pressure is greater than the working pressure of the vessel. Only elastic deformation is present in the composite layer, but both plastic and elastic deformation are present in the ultra-thin titanium liner.