From Theory to Practice: Experimental Validation Follows Simulation in the course “CAE with Composite Materials"

Simulating components and manufacturing processes using simulation software based on the Finite Element Method (FEM) is an indispensable tool in development practice. Especially when using fiber-reinforced plastics, simulation offers significant potential for optimizing components and production processes. Simulation approaches can complement or even replace experimental test designs as these are often associated with high costs. To contribute to the education of students in this increasingly relevant field of work, Leibniz-Institut für Verbundwerkstoffe at Rheinland-Pfälzische Technische Universität Kaiserslautern-Landau offers a laboratory.

In the "CAE with Composite Materials" laboratory, students learn about simulation tools for fiber-reinforced plastics and apply them to a generic example component. Taking into account a predefined requirements profile, they simulate and optimize possible fiber layups, deriving both the expected mechanical performance values and the so-called filling time in the vacuum infusion process, i.e., the time required for the vacuum-assisted liquid impregnation until the dry fiber structure is completely saturated with thermosetting infusion resin.

A highlight of this year's course was the experimental validation in a processing laboratory of IVW. The working groups, each consisting of 2-3 students, were able to demonstrate their practical skills and implement their previously determined layer structures based on simulation and optimization in the vacuum infusion process. In addition to teaching about digitization, these insights also raise awareness of manufacturing constraints.

"CAE with Composite Materials" is an integral part of the course offerings at IVW and is conducted every winter semester by Dr. Miro Duhovic.

You can find all course content here: https://www.kis.uni-kl.de/campus/all/event.asp?gguid=0x41753CC32BB242CAA5550C487C0F623A&tguid=0x3E97C1E01A714B9F9C0BEE5AB4FFE5FC