Modeling of z‐pinned structures using virtual fibers

Abstract This paper proposed a numerical method to simulate the z‐pinning process based on the concept of virtual fiber. Each virtual fiber is a flexible chain connected by truss elements with very short length. Then the plain fabric is constructed by virtual fiber yarns, which are obtained by assembling virtual fibers together. High precision model of z‐pinned structure is generated in the quasi‐fiber scale. Micro‐scale characteristics of z‐pinned structures are well modeled by the virtual fiber model, including the nesting between fabric plies, deflection of in‐plane fibers and the tilt of z‐pins during the z‐pinning process. The Micro‐CT tests are performed to investigate the internal fiber structures of the plain laminates, before and after z‐pinning. It is found that the modeled fiber structures are in excellent agreement with the Micro‐CT results. This approach would be helpful for understanding internal fiber architectures of z‐pinned structures and provides a good basis for mechanical modeling of z‐pinned composites. Highlights A novel method for modeling z‐pinned structures is proposed. High precision model of z‐pinned structure is established at fiber scale. It provides a good basis for mechanical modeling of z‐pinned composites.