Finite element analysis of self-tensioning and bursting of 210 L carbon fiber fully wound hydrogen storage cylinders

Abstract This paper focuses on a 210 L carbon fiber fully wound hydrogen storage cylinder. A 1/8 scale model is selected for analysis. Using the finite element software ANSYS APDL and secondary development language, an orthotropic material performance equation is formulated and applied to the composite material lay-up. Following DOT CFFC standards, the cylinder undergoes simulated loading and unloading analysis to determine the optimal self-tightening pressure. Subsequently, progressive failure theory and the Tsai-Wu failure criterion are employed to identify the failure modes of the composite material. Continual adjustments to the element stiffness are made during the loading process. Employing the element birth and death technique, failed elements are terminated and recorded, and based on increasing trends, the burst pressure of the cylinder can be predicted. The results closely align with experimental data, validating its applicability as the basis for burst prediction.