Effect of layer design on the structural strength of 70 MPa Type IV hydrogen storage vessels

Abstract In this study, under the conformity of engineering reality, considering the influence of slip coefficient on the variation range of winding angle, 15 composite lay‐up schemes of hydrogen storage vessels were designed using grid theory, and the hydrogen storage vessels's structural strength was analyzed. The distribution of non‐geodesic fiber windings on the outer surface of the inner layer was solved using differential theory and the winding principle, and ABAQUS established the finite element model. The maximum stress value and stress distribution of the composite layer of the hydrogen storage vessel along the fiber direction were studied, the damage of the composite layer was analyzed, and the pressure and mode of the bursting were predicted. Results show that the structural strength of the hydrogen storage vessel designed by this method can be effectively guaranteed. The hoop winding layer bears the majority of the stress on the hydrogen storage vessel, while the helical winding layer's fiber strength is not entirely utilized. The hydrogen storage vessel gains greater structural strength when the circumferential winding layer is concentrated and situated at the outermost portion of the composite layer. The layup scheme has an impact of approximately 17.21% on burst pressure. Highlights Effect of slip coefficient on the change of winding angle. Different forms of composite lay‐up schemes were designed. The stress distribution in the composite layer was studied. Analyzed structural strength and damage of the composite layer. Predicted the pressure and mode of bursting.