Elasto-plastic finite element analysis of titanium metal matrix composite shafts under torsional loading

Elasto-plastic finite element analyses of titanium metal matrix composite shafts subjected to torsional loading are presented based on a unit cell approach. The analyses cover different volume fractions and different values of the coefficient of friction for two fibre orientations, +45° and ±45°. Investigations of the interface contact pressure, debonding and plastic strains show that under torsional loading, the ±45° fibre direction is more suitable than the +45° fibre orientation for high-load applications.