Symmetrical Finite Element Model for Out-of-Plane Crushing of Nomex Honeycomb Structure
Wan Luqman Hakim Wan A Hamid （ Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ）
Mohd Sultan Ibrahim Shaik Dawood （ Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ）
Yulfian Aminanda （ Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Jalan Tungku Link Gadong, BE1410 Brunei Darussalam ）
https://doi.org/10.37155/2717-526X-72-67645Abstract
The computational cost of Finite Element (FE) simulation of a honeycomb structure under compression is significantly high due to the large number of cell walls, frequent wall-to-wall contacts, and large deformations during loading. To address this, a symmetrical FE model was modelled and simulated to predict the crushing behaviour of a Nomex honeycomb under quasi-static axial compression, significantly reducing computational demand. The FE model’s force-displacement response, crushing load (13.3 N), absorbed energy (69.6 mJ), and fold formation (9 folds) showed good agreement with experimental tests, confirming its reliability as a design tool. Beyond structural validation, this research demonstrates the potential of flexible honeycomb structures in aerospace applications, where their lightweight, energy-absorbing, and adaptive characteristics make them ideal for impact resistance, crashworthiness, and morphing components. By enabling efficient modelling and sustainable design, the study supports the advancement of aerospace structures that enhance safety, minimize resource consumption, and contribute to both wealth preservation and the protection of human life.
Keywords
Honeycomb structure; Out-of-plane crushing; Energy absorption; Finite Element Model (FEM) and Analysis (FEA)Full Text
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Copyright © 2025 Wan Luqman Hakim Wan A Hamid, Mohd Sultan Ibrahim Shaik Dawood, Yulfian Aminanda
Publishing time:2025-05-14
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
