Modelling and simulation of engine components made of fibre-reinforced plastics

  • Type:Bachelor-/Master Thesis MTU Aero Engines AG München
  • Date:Start negotiable
  • Supervision:

    Prof. Thomas Böhlke
    Dr. S. Döllig
    Dr. R. Vladimirov

  • Graduand/Requirements:

    Specialisation in mechanics desired
    Internship possible

  • Contact:

    Prof. Thomas Böhlke

  • Topic description:
     

    Due to their outstanding mechanical properties, fibre-reinforced plastic composites (FRP) are ideally suited for the implementation of lightweight components. An established method for the structural-mechanical design of FRP components is the finite element method (FEM). Compared to classical isotropic materials, the modelling of the structure within the FEM as well as the failure assessment is more difficult due to the special structure of the composite materials.


    The aim of this work is to contribute to the development of a simulation method for FE modelling and structural-mechanical design of FRP engine components. Numerical approaches for modelling the anisotropic and inhomogeneous material behaviour as well as the strength of FRP are to be developed in the work. Possible topics include the FE modelling of FRP components at different levels of detail, the implementation of suitable failure criteria in the FE software Abaqus and probabilistic uncertainty analyses.


    About the company:

    MTU Aero Engines is the leading German engine manufacturer and a global player. The company develops, manufactures, sells and supports aircraft engines in all thrust and power classes as well as stationary industrial gas turbines. Around 30% of commercial aircraft fly with MTU technology.