Finite element method for the parametric exploration of domestic composite liquid petroleum gas cylinder with steel

Abstract

Conventional Steel Cylinders used for LPG cylinder for domestic applications are not manufactured in a single joint but are welded. While composite cylinders are manufactured in a single joint, Composite components cannot be welded like the steel cylinder. Composite Cylinders are winded using Filament Winding technique. Compared to Steel Cylinders, Composite Cylinders are costlier. Composite cylinders are safer than steel cylinder. Composite Cylinders due to a rubber lining inside, they are 100% leak proof. If mass production of composite cylinders are done then the cost may get reduced. This paper summarizes the design and analysis of the manufacturing of Liquid petroleum gas (LPG) Cylinder using Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) material. Further, the stresses and deformations that may develop due to internal pressure loading on the LPG Cylinder with GFRP material are to be analysed. Hence finite element analysis is applied with ANSYS software to simulate the corresponding analysis. Then the parametric comparative analysis of the LPG Cylinder with steel and GFRP material is also carried out assuming hemispherical end dome and considering cylinder without end frames. A significant saving in the weight of the LPG Cylinder, significant increase in the deformation and volumetric strain is observed with GFRP material against steel.