Design methodology for ultra lightweight carbon fibre reinforced textile composites

Purpose and goal

The project aimed to develop a design methodology with the objective to enable introduction of Oxeons ultra-light reinforcements in aerospace applications. Models describing the influence of manufacturing induced residual stresses, mechanical loading and how impact affects residual strength were therefore needed. The models developed within the VINNOVA financed project have generated the requested effects as several companies within the aeronautical industry already have started evaluation projects based on Oxeon´s reinforcement structure.

Results and expected effects

The project results have generated a great interest and an increased belief that thin fiber reinforcements may increase strength and reduce weight of structures used in aeronautical applications in Europe and USA. Such weight savings are of great importance for the aeronautical industry to reduce the environmental impact. By offering simulation and optimization work also to customers outside the aeronautical industry Oxeon has additionally broadened its range of market services.

Approach and implementation

The work packages containing design methodology developments and manufacturing and testing were performed in parallel which gave a direct link between FE-models and testing. The majority of data used in the simulations were extracted from the projects test program. Therefore, ensuring high quality test materials were of great importance. As a result of this, the work package for manufacturing and testing became somewhat larger than initially planned for.