Performance index of isogrid structures: robotic filament winding carbon fiber reinforced polymer vs. titanium alloy

The structures adopted in the aeronautic field should have three main characteristics: they must be strong, stiff, and light. These targets can be obtained by choosing high performance and low weight materials, as composite or titanium alloy, but also the wise design of the structure itself is important for enhancing the mechanical performances. The isogrid structures, that are composed of a lattice frame reinforcing a skin, represent a very interesting solution to fulfill the abovementioned requirements. In the present work, a comparative analysis of the structural performances of lattice-stiffened cylinders made of different materials was carried out. The studied parts were made of carbon fiber composite material or titanium alloy, while a FEM model was implemented and verified for this study. The cylinder made of composite material was produced through robotic filament winding, an innovative technology that allows the attainment of high-quality parts. It was found that the strength and the stiffness of the structures were almost the same for both the analyzed material, but very interesting results were determined by considering the weight of the different structures: the composite material one resulted to be the most performant since it had the highest specific performances.

Automated summary

The structures in the aeronautic field should be strong, stiff, and light, achieved through high-performance and low-weight materials as well as smart design. Isogrid structures with lattice frames are an interesting solution. A comparative analysis of lattice-stiffened cylinders made of composite materials or titanium alloy showed similar strength and stiffness, but composite materials had the best specific performance due to their lightweight nature.