nCode and e-Xstream collaborate on solutions for fatigue of composite materials

Methods to predict the fatigue of composite materials will be introduced in the next release of nCode DesignLife software

nCode, the leading brand of fatigue and durability software offered by HBM, announced today that methods to predict the fatigue of composite materials will be introduced in the next release of nCode DesignLife software. These innovative and industry leading solutions for fatigue of composites are a result of collaboration between HBM-nCode and e-Xstream engineering, provider of state-of-the-art material modeling platform, DIGIMAT.

“With the drive for reduced weight and increased fuel efficiency, the transportation sector is turning to lightweight materials such as polymers and composites. The challenge for automotive and aerospace manufacturers is to ensure the required longevity and durability under real operating conditions,” commented Steve Tudberry, Vice-President HBM-nCode software. “The partnership with e-Xstream brings together the global leaders in our respective fields to provide a seamless and robust solution for fatigue analysis of composites.”

“The use of composites in the automotive and aerospace industries is booming. This growth concerns a large mix of composites types, manufacturing processes and the associated applications, cost and performances. Predicting the fatigue and durability of this large variety of composites is the challenge that HBM-nCode and e-Xstream are joining forces to address,” stated Roger A. Assaker, CEO of e-Xstream engineering.

The fatigue of composites poses particular challenges for engineers because the properties of the constituent parts, polymer (resin) matrix and fibers, interact to determine the fatigue properties, which vary in each location and direction. The initial focus of the DesignLife solution is in the area of engineering plastics, such as short fiber polymers, which are commonly used in the automotive industry. DIGIMAT determines the appropriate material parameters for a complete component, which can then be coupled with a finite element analysis. nCode DesignLife combines the calculated stresses together with specific fatigue properties to predict the fatigue lives of the whole component under loading conditions. Further developments for additional types of composite are also planned.