Dynamic analysis of composite overwrap pressure vessel

Abstract

Composite Overwrap Pressure Vessel (COPV) has found wide applications in many structural systems. In this study, the composite overwrap is in the form of laminates with multiple layers of unidirectional carbon fibers. The composite overwrap increases the pressure carrying capacity of the vessel without adding too much weight to the tank. The behavior of carbon fiber composite materials is not as well understood as traditional materials. To ensure safe operation of the COPV, a dynamic properties-based health monitoring technique is proposed to constantly monitor the integrity of the structure. This on-line monitoring system identifies changes in the global or local dynamic characteristics and issues warnings or triggers structural control system to bring the structural performance back to normal.

The purpose of this project is to test the feasibility of predicting working conditions of the COPV based on the change of its dynamic characteristics. The analyses are performed in two categories: an aluminum tank, and the aluminum tank over wrapped with carbon fiber composite materials. For each category, the tank is filled with water, both with and without an added pressure.