A discrete layer finite element model for cylindrical shells

This paper presents a new discrete layer finite element method modeling thin and moderately thick orthotropic and laminated composite cylindrical shells. the element formulation is based on the first order shear deformation theory of shells. a twenty-degrees-of-freedom plane stress element is utilized and modeled with in-plane displacements defined at the interfaces of the element layers in addition to the radial displacement. a field consistency approach is implemented to insure that the element is free from locking due to membrane tangential,shear and transverse shear strains. the field consistency approach used eliminates inconsistent terms from the original displacement shape functions that correspond to the targeted strains. the new element is validated through a series of benchmark problems and has shown accurate and fast converging results. © 2015,university of kuwait. all rights reserved.