MSC Software Corporation

MSC Nastran can be efficiently and effectively used to model laminated composites. MSC Nastran allows the user to specify the material properties, orientation, and thickness for each lamina in the composite layup. The program then calculates the properties of the equivalent plate. This automatic representation of laminated composites is available in all MSC Nastran solution sequences; however stresses, strains, and failure indices can be recovered at the lamina level for only statics, normal modes, and nonlinear statics. In addition, MSC Nastran can be used for multi-disciplinary structural optimization of laminated composite materials. This seminar describes how to use MSC Nastran for practical analysis and design optimization of composite materials. Examples are provided that illustrate typical uses for all major topics. The Patran composite pre- and post processing is also shown.