Design and Analysis of Composite Drive Shaft by using Finite Element Method

Abstract

An automotive composite drive shafts offer the potential of lighter and longer life drive train with higher critical speed. This paper deals with analysis of composite drive shaft by using FE approach. Static and modeling analysis has been carried out using Finite Element software. Investigation has been carried out in terms of weight and stress minimization, effects of fibers winding angle and layers stacking sequence on the critical speed. These results are compared with the analytical solutions and experimental values. Attempt has been made to simulate the FE results, which helps to design the composite drive shaft for optimum conditions and for better performance. Maximum stresses and deflections have been compared with different materials and investigated for good fiber orientations and for best suitable material for shaft instead of steel.