Characterisation of Fibre Glass Panels for Naval Use

Abstract

This work examines the characteristic of fiber glass composite panels constructed by Cantieri Arturo Stabile in Trapani (Italy): composite materials are very used in the naval applications, where high stiffness and resistance are required with reduced weight. Experimental tests are executed following ASTM or UNI EN rules, in particular the shear test is executed using a rig constructed to the purpose, designed following the rule ASTM D 4255-83. Besides the tests were simulated by analytical methods, by means of Cadec software and numerically by FEM software as Altair Hyperworks and Ansys, to evidence the error range of the experimental test and to obtain the configuration that can give suitable results also for more complex designs. The successive phase of optimization is useful to obtain a reduction of the thickness, without compromising the resistance, for a consequent reduction of the production cost and energy saving of the boat during its use.