The effects of ribs in axial compression of CFRPanisogrid cylindrical shell structures

Abstract

CFRP lattice shell structures are preferred in spacecraft applications such as rocket interstages, payload adapters in launch vehicle, fuselage components. There is a necessity to improve the structural efficiency of these structures to withstand various loads, especially axial compression. This paper presents the Finite element modeling of CFRP composite cylindrical shells viz., unstiffened and anisogrid under static loading condition. Finite element analysis of unstiffened and anisogrid composite shell structures was conducted using ANSYS® workbench for axial static loading condition. The material model and material properties of the entire finite element analysis is based upon the literature test data results. Based on the Finite Element Analysis results it has been inferred that the anisogrid shell possess maximum load carrying capacity than unstiffened shell structures.