How to write a script to use the Tsai-Wu failure criterion in solid composites formed by multiple layers with MAT9ORT material

Stefano Di Meo

I want to write a script to automatically calculate the failure index for Tsai-Wu laminated composite solids.
I have an FEM that I have already analyzed with Optistruct and in which there are many components that are solid laminates made up of multiple layers and described by the MAT9ORT material. Unlike the MAT8, in the MAT9ORT Hyperworks does not automatically calculate the failure index via Tsai-Wu. To use Tsai-Wu I have to analyze the elements of each single layer one by one to obtain the tensile, compressive and shear stress values to be used in the Tsai-Wu formula.
I want to write a script for not doing the analysis of the maximum stresses by hand in thousands of elements and in tens of layers.

RobHoglund

Hi Stefano,

Did you try selecting the failure criteria TSAI3D on the MATF continuation card on the MAT9ORT definition? You can use this to calculate the 3D Tsai-Wu criteria with PCOMPLS.

There's more information in the OS User Guide -> Elements Page under the Composite Laminates section.

Thanks,

Rob H.