Modelling, simulation and validation of bending test of box segment formed as two composite shells glued together

Marian Klasztorny, Daniel Nycz, Marek Cedrowski

Quarterly No. 2, 2015 pages 88-94

DOI:

keywords: thin-walled box beam, GFRP laminate, glue layer, three-point bending test, modelling and simulation, experimental validation

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abstract The present experimental and numerical research is focused on a box composite beam, so-called a validation segment, consisting of two vinylester/glass shells glued together. The top shell has a hat cross-section, whereas the bottom one is flat. The shells are glued together at two horizontal contact strips. The validation segment reflects the central part of the cross- and longitudinal-section of a box composite superstructure of a footbridge designed by the authors. The dimensions of the cross- section and the number of fabric layers in the validation segment are decreased twice in comparison with the footbridge superstructure. Moreover, the composite beam was rotated by 180° in relation to the footbridge. The validation segment is 2.35 m long, and the cross-section overall dimensions are 0.60 m × 0.26 m (width×height). The laminate components, glue and manufacturing technology of the validation segment are the same as for the composite footbridge. The study develops a methodology for numerical modelling and simulation by the Finite Element Method of box composite girders formed as two composite shells glued together. The methodology is developed in reference to the validation segment which is subjected to the 3-point bending test with shear. Experimental validation of the modelling and simulation was carried out for the basic case of new laminates at 20°C. FE computer code MSC.Marc 2010 was used for the numerical modelling and simulation.