Simulation Strategies for Dynamic and Static Behaviour of Composite Beams

Abstract

Doors and windows represent a vital role in domestic energy efficiency, and multi-material beams with a thermal break can be fundamental in terms of energetic sustainability. Their static and dynamic structural performance is fundamental to ensure a proper thermal insulation. Two multi-material composite beam topologies were tested in a three-point bending, while one was subjected to an experimental frequency response analysis. FEM models were created for the composite beams, using beam elements (BEAM189) and solid elements (SOLID186) with a shared topology configuration. Their capacity to predict the static and dynamic behaviour of the beams was assessed by comparing the numerical results with the experimental and analytical data. It is shown that the three-point bending behaviour of the physical beam could not be realistically captured by the 1D beam elements model, as their cross section with different components could not be coupled due to the relatively low stiffness of the polymeric components. However, the eigenfrequencies from the beam elements were very close to those measured experimentally, meaning the dynamic modulus at low strain values could keep the beam’s cross section in-plane during the experiment. On the other hand, the 3D solid elements had the opposite outcome, agreeing with the experimental three-point bending test but not with the experimental modal analysis.