Winding orientation optimization design of composite tubes based on quasi-static and dynamic experiments

Compared with traditional metal materials, composite materials can be better designed by changing layup condition or ply orientation to meet performance requirements. In this study, influences of stacking sequence and fiber orientation of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) circular tube on energy absorption performance were evaluated by axial quasi-static compression, drop weight tests and numerical simulation. Optimal ply angle and layup condition of composite tubes were obtained based on the finite element modeling and regression analysis. The optimization design result was validated by experiments. Drop weight tests results were analyzed and compared with quasi-static experimental results. Experimental and numerical results illustrate that proper increase of axial layups can improve the specific energy absorption of composite tubes.