Thermal Buckling Analysis of Axially Layered Aluminium Silicon Nitride Functionally Graded Thin Beam using Taguchi Method

This research examines the thermal instability of slender beams composed of functionally graded materials (FGMs), with a specific focus on their suitability for engine hood components. The FGM combines the durability of aluminum with the heat tolerance of silicon nitride. The study aims to determine the maximum temperature the beam can withstand without buckling under various support conditions, simulating the uneven heat distribution experienced by engine hoods in actual use. The FGM structure comprises four longitudinally arranged layers, where the ceramic and metallic components gradually shift across the thickness. Finite element modeling software (ANSYS) is utilized to examine the buckling response under diverse temperature conditions. To enhance the thermal performance of the engine hood panel, the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array methodology is employed utilizing Minitab 19 software. The first four layers of the FGM beam are defined as process variables, while the critical buckling temperature is designated as the output variable. The material composition of each layer is adjusted across three levels to assess its impact on the hood panel's resistance to thermal strain. The Signal-to-Noise (S/N) ratio is employed to determine the ideal configuration for achieving the highest possible critical buckling temperature. This investigation also uncovers the influence of ceramic and metallic composition on the behavior of each layer, enabling the creation of an FGM hood panel that offers superior heat resistance and structural robustness. Additionally, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is performed with a 95% confidence interval to identify the layer with the most substantial impact on the critical buckling temperature and quantify its relative influence. This information is essential for customizing the FGM composition to target areas of the hood panel exposed to the highest thermal loads, like the region directly above the engine. Finally, utilizing the 95% confidence interval derived from the confirmatory analysis and population statistics, the ideal maximum temperature before buckling for the FGM engine hood component is projected. This investigation yields significant knowledge for the development of lightweight, thermally resilient FGM engine hood structures. By refining the material composition of each layer, designers can produce engine hoods with superior resistance to heat-induced warping, potentially resulting in improved vehicle safety and functionality.