Finite element modeling for static and free vibration analysis of laminated composite circular cylinders using Carrera Unified Formulation

This paper presents a comprehensive finite element model for analyzing the static and free vibration behavior of laminated composite circular cylinders (LCCCs) using the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF). The displacement fields are formulated within the equivalent single-layer (ESL) framework of CUF, enhanced with higher-order polynomial expansions to accurately capture both in-plane and through-thickness deformation characteristics. Curved isoparametric shell elements are employed, and the governing equations are derived using the Principle of Virtual Displacement (PVD). The mathematical model accommodates various realistic boundary conditions and loading types, allowing detailed assessment of displacements, stress distributions, and natural frequencies. Parametric studies are carried out to examine the influence of slenderness ratio ( L / h ) , radius ( R ) , fiber orientation angle ( θ ) , and stacking sequence on structural performance. The results show excellent agreement with existing benchmark solutions, validating the reliability and versatility of the CUF-based model for analyzing both thin and moderately thick composite cylinders in structural applications.