Numerical simulation of sandwich T-joints under dynamic loading

The use of fibre composite materials in more demanding roles is increasing due to increased performance requirements in various applications. However the joining of large structural panels always provides complications and inevitable compromises in performance. This becomes more apparent when the joints are subjected to dynamic loading environments. This paper presents results on the performance of composite sandwich T-joints subjected to both static and dynamic loading commonly used in large panels for naval applications. The results of previous experiments have been used to validate detailed numerical models capable of simulating the damage processes observed. In general, the failure load predicted by the FE analysis came within 30% of the experimental results. Results of parametric studies have also been presented showing the failure modes of the T-joints to be sensitive to the core shear failure strength of the base panel. A larger fillet radius helped to increase the failure loads of the T-joint. For the geometries in the present study, an increase of the fillet radius of 57% resulted in a 53% increase in the failure load. Fabricating defects significantly reduces the strength of the T-joint with voids between the leg panel and the fillet causing a 37–50% reduction of the failure load.