Finite Element Analysis of Sandwich T-Joints Subjected to Water Slamming Loads

Abstract

This article evaluates the structural response of a sandwich ship hull with T-joint longitudinal stiffeners subjected to water slamming. Finite element analysis was conducted using the commercial code LS-DYNA. The T-joint stiffeners were modeled as linear elastic springs allowing the vertical displacement and rotation at the panel ends. Three different stiffnesses and two impact velocities were considered. Results showed to be significantly different from the fixed-supported panel case. Keywords - Finite Element Analysis, FluidSandwich Composite Hulls, Structure Interaction, T-Joint, Water Slamming.