Finite element analysis of cross-ply and quasi-isotropic laminate plates with a center hole for variable thickness under transverse loading using shear deformation theories

Laminated plates with holes are often used in industrial applications such as aeronautics, automobiles, and marine. It is necessary to present a study of the combined effect of deformation theories and thickness variation for the laminated plate with a hole. This manuscript considers analysis theories named: Kirchhoff, layer-wise, and Reissner-Mindlin, to study their validity for different thickness aspect ratios under transverse compression loading. Studies are conducted on CFRP laminate (symmetric cross-ply and quasi-isotropic), and the performed numerical (FEM) analysis processes are validated through existing literature. Transverse shear, circumferential, radial, and radial-hoop stress variations with stress concentration factors are presented along the thickness and around the hole configurations (18 cases are covered) of the plate. Also, the resultant effects are discussed on in-plane, and out-of-plane stresses for laminates to specify the selection of design conditions (theory, thickness, model, and laminates). This research may provide engineers and researchers with various assessments and design insight for laminate structures with a hole.