Probabilistic multiconstraints optimization of cooling channels in ceramic matrix composites

in Composites. Part B, Engineering (2015), 81

This paper presents a computational reliable optimization approach for internal cooling channels in Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) under thermal and mechanical loadings. The algorithm finds the optimal ... [more ▼]

This paper presents a computational reliable optimization approach for internal cooling channels in Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) under thermal and mechanical loadings. The algorithm finds the optimal cooling capacity of all channels (which directly minimizes the amount of coolant needed). In the first step, available uncertainties in the constituent material properties, the applied mechanical load, the heat flux and the heat convection coefficient are considered. Using the Reliability Based Design Optimization (RBDO) approach, the probabilistic constraints ensure the failure due to excessive temperature and deflection will not happen. The deterministic constraints restrict the capacity of any arbitrary cooling channel between two extreme limits. A “series system” reliability concept is adopted as a union of mechanical and thermal failure subsets. Having the results of the first step for CMC with uniformly distributed carbon (C-) fibers, the algorithm presents the optimal layout for distribution of the C-fibers inside the ceramic matrix in order to enhance the target reliability of the component. A sequential approach and B-spline finite elements have overcome the cumbersome computational burden. Numerical results demonstrate that if the mechanical loading dominates the thermal loading, C-fibers distribution can play a considerable role towards increasing the reliability of the design. [less ▲]

Two- and three-dimensional isogeometric cohesive elements for composite delamination analysis

in Composites. Part B, Engineering (2014), 60

We propose an automatic numerical method requiring minimal user intervention to simulate delamination in composite structures. We develop isogeometric cohesive elements for two- and three-dimensional ... [more ▼]

We propose an automatic numerical method requiring minimal user intervention to simulate delamination in composite structures. We develop isogeometric cohesive elements for two- and three-dimensional delamination by exploiting the knot insertion algorithm directly from CAD data to generate cohesive elements along delamination. A complete computational framework is presented including pre-processing, processing and post-processing. They are explained in detail and implemented in MIGFEM - an open source Matlab Isogemetric Analysis code developed by the authors. The composite laminates are modeled using both NURBS solid and rotation-free shell elements. Several two and three dimensional examples ranging from standard delamination tests (the mixed mode bending test) to the L-shaped specimen with a fillet, three dimensional (3D) double cantilever beam and a 3D singly curved thick-walled laminate are provided. The method proposed provides a bi-directional system in which one can go forward from CAD to analysis and backwards from analysis to CAD. This is believed to facilitate the design of composite structures. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. [less ▲]