Learning Forum

[Raghav]

Hi everyone,

I am trying to do impact modelling on a thick composite plate. Each layer consists of solid elements. How to model composite plate properly.

It will be very helpfull if anyone can share a model of the composite plate using solid elements. Please guide me through steps like when to use part_composite or part_solid. Any document that refers to complete modelling of composites will also be helpful. 

Regards

[Raman Babu]

Hello Raghav,

Please see the link below

https://ftp.lstc.com/anonymous/outgoing/support/PRESENTATIONS/lsprepostcomposite.pdf

https://ftp.lstc.com/anonymous/outgoing/support/FAQ/composite.models

Please try it and let me know how it goes.

Regards,

Raman Babu

[Raghav]

Hi Raman, thankyou for the links. They are really helpfull. 

Some doubts still remains and it will be helpfulll if you can guide me through it.

1. What is the difference Between solid and T_Shell. id there any criteria for defining tshell similar to that of shell (L/T >50 ratio)
2. I want to use solid elements, so using the solid elements can i define my part (lets say 10 mm thick) as 1 geometry containing and divide them into multiple layers of solid (lets say 10 layers of 1mm each) using Part_Composite or only shell elements can be used with this keyword as many examples either dipicts shell or T_Shell

Thanks and regards

[Raman Babu]

Hello Raghav,

Solid elements are volume elements that model three-dimensional stress states. They are suitable for complex stress distributions, especially through-thickness, and are commonly used when L/T < 10, where L is the characteristic length of the structure and T is its thickness.

For modeling composite solids, each individual layer needs to be modeled as a separate solid body with appropriately defined element orientations. We do not define layers in the same way as with the T_Shell or Shell composite approach.

T_Shell (Thick Shell) elements, on the other hand, are technically a layered shell formulation that exhibits solid-like behavior in the thickness direction. Unlike standard shells, T_Shell can handle thicker structures while still capturing through-thickness stress variations. It is more efficient than solid elements for some moderately thick structures—especially when L/T is between 5 and 50. Additionally, T_Shell can model transverse shear deformation, unlike thin shells.

Regards,

Raman Babu