Energy absorption rate of composite tube as a function of stacking sequence using finite element method

Abstract Numerical investigations were performed on a series of laminated composites when subjected to dynamic loadings, in order to determine their energy absorption rate and dissipating energy during impact. The details of numerical modeling, contact analysis, material parameters, and failure criteria were explained and discussed. We aimed to determine the energy absorption rate of various quasi-isotropic lay-ups when subjected to the dynamic loadings, and found that energy dissipation rate varied depending on stacking sequence. In this investigation, we studied how the energy absorption rate and the peak impact load change as a result of changing stacking sequence, with all stacking sequences being quasi-isotropic. Using a constant impacting mass and varied impacting speeds, we found that stacking sequence can significantly control the energy transfer rate or energy absorption rate under dynamic load condition.