Modeling of 3D fluid-structure-interaction during in-situ hybridization of double-curved fiber-metal-laminates

Fiber-metal-laminates (FML) provide excellent fatigue behavior, damage-tolerant properties, and inherent corrosion resistance. A 2017-developed single-step process that combines deep-drawing with simultaneous infiltration (in-situ-hybridization) yields promising results. However, Fluid-Structure-Interaction (FSI) between the hybrid stack and the fluid pressure complicated the defect-free processing of double-curved parts. In this work, a Finite Element (FE) simulation approach for modeling the in-situ hybridization of FMLs is expanded to incorporate a both-sided (strong) FSI, aiming to facilitate apriori virtual support for process- and part development. Using Terzaghi’s effective stress formulation, the proposed framework can predict metal sheet buckling and resin accumulation resulting from local fluid pressure during infiltration of the textile interlayers on part level. Different conditions are simulated, outlining the high relevance of considering strong FSI during process simulation. The part-level results are compared with experimental findings. Modeling challenges are discussed, along with suggested future enhancements of the simulation approach.