I am an Engineering Consultant (since 1991) involved with structural design and analysis and expert witness testimony with a specialty in laminated and composite materials. With 18 years experience in Advanced Composites and FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastics), my background spans the market place for composites applications. Composite materials are useful in that that can be tailored for an application by suitable selection of the materials (fibers and resins) and the orientation of the fibers depending on the magnitude and direction of the loads.

I have assisted hundreds of satisfied clients through the years. These projects ranged from structural design and analysis over a wide range of applications, failure analysis, manufacturing processing, materials selection, expert witness testimony in product liability cases, and expert witness testimony in patent dispute cases.

The design of a composite structure (such as a tank) may be specified to meet specific standards and codes. These can include ASME RTP-1 or ASME Section X for FRP vessels. ASTM standards are also commonly called out to control raw materials and fabrication. I am very experienced with these codes and standards and can develop a specification for a particular application.

The basic steps in evaluating a composite material are micro mechanics to predict elastic properties, analysis of the composite using laminated plate theory and/or finite element analysis (macro mechanics), and strength prediction which may require some mechanical testing. I have numerous Computer Programs to perform these calculations.

Advanced Composites are used where performance and weight savings are important and an example would be using high performance graphite fibers in an epoxy resin matrix for rocket motor cases.

FRP composites are typically made using glass fibers in a polyester or vinyl ester resin matrix and are usually used where cost, appearance, and corrosion resistance are important. Examples of FRP composites applications range from fiberglass shower enclosures and boats to duct, pipe, stacks, process vessels, and storage tanks for highly corrosive materials.

You will see from my Resume that I specialize in composite materials, but please note that isotropic materials (the material properties are the same in all directions) such as metals have a special and simplified form. Many of the projects I have been involved with have been all metal components or hybrid composites where isotropic materials are used in combination with composite materials.

The Resume and Computer Programs that I use or have developed are linked here for additional information. Some of the computer programs can be viewed in pdf format by clicking on the links.