Progressive failure analysis of pin-loaded laminated composites using penalty finite element method

A progressive failure analysis is carried out to predict the failure strengths and failure modes of pin-loaded laminated composite plates using the penalty finite element method. To consider contact condition in the pin hole interface, an exterior penalty method and the Coulomb friction law are used. Damage accumulations in the laminates are evaluated by using Hashin's failure criteria combined with the proposed property degradation model, Using a finite element code developed based on the present formulation, contact stresses are obtained and verified, Predictions of failure strengths and the failure modes compare well with available experimental data. Finally, a parametric study considering geometries and clearance is performed to identify the failure characteristics of the pin loaded laminated composite plate, The numerical results show the importance of geometric parameters and clearance on both the failure strengths and the failure modes.