Stress State of Multilayer Structural Elements Subjected to Static Loading and Optimization of Laminated Beams and Bars

The results of FEM investigation of the triaxial stress state in multilayer structural elements subjected to axial and bending loads are presented. The distribution regularities of the stiffness and stresses or strains depending on the geometric and mechanical characteristics of layers and their position in the cross section of beams and bars are examined. The optimization of these elements is carried out using the dependences of the Bareisis—Paulauskas method and the Optim-98 computer program created by the present authors. As the optimization criteria, the strength, stiffness, mass, and cost of the structural elements are considered.     

Influence of Different Factors on the Stiffness and Strength of Multilayer Composite Elements

In the paper, the bending stiffness and strength of multilayer structural elements in relation to the mechanical properties of layers and their number layout and sizes are investigated and the corresponding correlations are established. It is found that the most rational structure of a multilayer element in bending is a symmetric three-layer structure formed from two materials with the thickness of the core less than the half-thickness of the element. The values of normal stresses in the layers of a multilayer beam in bending depends on its bending stiffness and the position of layers relative to the neutral axis. The influence of the number of layers on the stiffness of the structural element and on the magnitude of normal stresses is insignificant.     

Research in the Limiting Efficiency of Plastic Deformation of Multilayer Tension (Compression) Bars

A method is proposed for calculating the limiting loads of multilayer bars in plastic deformation. The regularities of changes in the efficiency factor (EF) of plastic deformation in relation to the elastic moduli of the materials of which the bars are composed, the stress which causes the material plasticity, and variations in the cross-sectional areas of layers are examined. Mathematical expressions are derived which allow one to easily calculate the EF for arbitrary values of variable parameters and to find the limiting values of EF when one of the parameters is changed. The equivalent tension diagram for a multilayer bar is obtained in relation to the strength and stiffness of materials and their number and cross-sectional areas.