DESIGN AND STATIC STRUCTURAL, IMPACT ANALYSIS ON TYPE IV HYDROGEN FUEL TANK USING ANSYS SOFTWARE

Abstract

Using ANSYS software for static structural and impact analysis, this research investigates the design and structural integrity of a Type IV hydrogen fuel tank. In order to maximise safety and performance in automotive applications, the tank has a unique dual-layer composition consisting of a 3mm outer shell made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) with epoxy resin based on bisphenol A and bisphenol F and an inner layer made of high-strength aluminium alloy (7068-T6511). The static structural study, which ensured compliance with strict safety criteria, evaluated stress distribution and deformation in the tank under high-pressure circumstances using finite element analysis (FEA). The impact study verified the structural integrity and longevity of the combined materials by running simulated scenarios and further examining the tank's resistance to collision forces. The results show that although the CFRP exterior layer greatly adds to the tank's lightweight and improves its impact resistance, the aluminium inner layer efficiently retains the hydrogen at high pressures. These results highlight how these composite materials may improve the sustainability, safety, and effectiveness of hydrogen storage systems. According to the study's findings, the usage of high-strength aluminium alloy in conjunction with epoxy resin and CFRP not only satisfies but surpasses the performance standards set now for hydrogen fuel tanks, which has encouraging implications for the development of hydrogen-powered vehicles in the future.