Study on Prediction of Failure Behavior of Composite Pressure Vessel Using Explicit Finite Element Analysis

In this study, using explicit finite element analysis, we predicted the failure behavior and mode of Type-III composite pressure vessels manufactured by filament winding method. The finite element model was created considering the composite lamination pattern of composite pressure vessels and variations in winding angle and thickness of dome part. Material testing was conducted to determine the mechanical properties of the composite material used in the pressure vessel. To verify the reliability of the analysis results, a hydraulic test of the composite pressure vessel was performed to evaluate the burst pressure, strain, and failure mode. Explicit element analysis of the composite pressure vessel was conducted using LS-Dyna, and Chang-Chang failure criterion was applied to predict failure mode of composite pressure vessel. Comparisons of analysis and test results confirmed a 2.41% difference in burst pressure and similar failure behavior and failure modes.