Analytical modeling of indentation of composite sandwich beam

This paper deals with static indentation of sandwich beams with a foam core. An analytical model is presented assuming that the specific response of foams in compression can be assimilated to an elastic–perfectly plastic behavior. The elastic part is represented using Vlasov’s model. The displacements and stress calculated with this two parameters model are compared with results given by Winkler’s theory and Finite Element Method. Vlasov’s idealization gives more accurate results that Winkler’s model. A complete study of the influence of the parameters of Vlasov’s model is performed. Then, plasticity is added to the model to represent the non-linear response of the core. The load–displacement response of sandwich beams under static indentation is calculated and compared to experimental and Finite Element results. A good correlation is found. The size of the area where the foam is crushed given by the developed model is in good agreement with Finite Element analysis.