Case Study: Cranfield University improves composite joint failure analysis with TECHNIA

Cranfield University optimizes composite joints with TECHNIA for lower-weight designs

Cranfield University partnered with TECHNIA to conduct design optimization research to determine the effects of composite joint failure. The challenge was that minimal research existed on the performance of castellated joints in composite panels under tensile and bending loads, which are critical yet often weak areas in aerospace design that traditionally require heavy reinforcement.

TECHNIA collaborated with Cranfield University to investigate the jointing method, utilizing the university's specialist resources to create a definitive Abaqus finite element model and establish new design rules. This research enabled TECHNIA to create preliminary designs with confidence that the joints would meet loading requirements, optimize designs to minimize weight, and determine the effect of manufacturing variability. The project successfully pushed the development of TECHNIA's composite engineering expertise and opened up a new line of work for similar industrial challenges.

Cranfield University