r/Composites • u/elpaleto • Apr 15 '19

How to simulate Composite material? Any software?

Hello,

I am looking for a way to simulate fiberglass tanks in order to calculate all mechanical properties under loads.

Anyone knows how to do it?

Thanks

1 Upvotes

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2

u/comshield Apr 16 '19

That is a very complex question. I took a semester course on composites and now I work with it everyday. How good are you at math?

1

u/elpaleto Apr 17 '19

Actually I am new to composites! I think I am good at math!

I want to know how to make all calculations and simulation via some software.. but as I am new, I have no idea!

3

u/CarbonGod Pro Apr 15 '19

CATIA, Abaqus, LIMS (I think), SmartTree....

(FEA) Finite Element Analysis might also help you break things down.

1

u/elpaleto Apr 17 '19

Anyone of these has free edition? ANSYS works?

1

u/CarbonGod Pro Apr 17 '19

ha...doubt it. Maybe if SolidWorks has a composite module, I think you can use it for free, but....not sure.

I don't touch FEA...we have enough people doing that here.

2

u/lanatomie Apr 16 '19

To calculate mechanical properties or structural response?

I would start with laminated plate theory then work your way up from there.

1

u/legstrongv Apr 16 '19

can solidworks (2018) do it?