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At least 973 records · Page 54

Micromechanics analysis of space simulated thermal deformations and stresses in continuous fiber reinforced composites

Space simulated thermally induced deformations and stresses in continuous fiber reinforced composites were investigated with a micromechanics analysis. The investigation focused on two primary areas. First, available explicit expressions for predicting the effective coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) for a composite were compared with each other, and with a finite element (FE) analysis, developed specifically for this study. Analytical comparisons were made for a wide range of fiber/matrix systems, and predicted values were compared with experimental data. The second area of investigation focused on the determination of thermally induced stress fields in the individual constituents. Stresses predicted from the FE analysis were compared to those predicted from a closed-form solution to the composite cylinder (CC) model, for two carbon fiber/epoxy composites. A global-local formulation, combining laminated plate theory and FE analysis, was used to determine the stresses in multidirectional laminates. Thermally induced damage initiation predictions were also made.

Bowles, David E.↗

Elastic stability of biaxially loaded longitudinally stiffened composite structures.

A linear analysis method is presented for the elastic stability of structures of uniform cross section, that may be idealized as an assemblage of laminated plate-strips, flat and curved, and beams. Each plate-strip and beam covers the entire length of the structure and is simply supported on the edges normal to the longitudinal axis. Arbitrary boundary conditions may be specified on any external longitudinal side of plate-strips. The structure or selected plate-strips may be loaded in any desired combination of inplane biaxial loads. The analysis simultaneously considers all modes of instability and is applicable for the buckling of laminated composite structures. Some numerical results are presented to indicate possible applications.

Viswanathan, A. V.↗

A Modeling Technique and Representation of Failure in the Analysis of Triaxial Braided Carbon Fiber Composites

Quasi-static tests have been performed on triaxially braided carbon fiber composite materials with large unit cell sizes. The effects of different fibers and matrix materials on the failure mode were investigated. Simulations of the tests have been performed using the transient dynamic finite element code, LS-DYNA. However, the wide range of failure modes observed for the triaxial braided carbon fiber composites during tests could not be simulated using composite material models currently available within LS-DYNA. A macroscopic approach has been developed that provides better simulation of the material response in these materials. This approach uses full-field optical measurement techniques to measure local failures during quasi-static testing. Information from these experiments is then used along with the current material models available in LS-DYNA to simulate the influence of the braided architecture on the failure process. This method uses two-dimensional shell elements with integration points through the thickness of the elements to represent the different layers of braid along with a new analytical method for the import of material stiffness and failure data directly. The present method is being used to examine the effect of material properties on the failure process. The experimental approaches used to obtain the required data will be described, and preliminary results of the numerical analysis will be presented.

Littell, Justin D.↗

A Modeling Technique and Representation of Failure in the Analysis of Triaxial Braided Carbon Fiber Composites

Quasi-static tests have been performed on triaxially braided carbon fiber composite materials with large unit cell sizes. The effects of different fibers and matrix materials on the failure mode were investigated. Simulations of the tests have been performed using the transient dynamic finite element code, LS-DYNA. However, the wide range of failure modes observed for the triaxial braided carbon fiber composites during tests could not be simulated using composite material models currently available within LS-DYNA. A macroscopic approach has been developed that provides better simulation of the material response in these materials. This approach uses full-field optical measurement techniques to measure local failures during quasi-static testing. Information from these experiments is then used along with the current material models available in LS-DYNA to simulate the influence of the braided architecture on the failure process. This method uses two-dimensional shell elements with integration points through the thickness of the elements to represent the different layers of braid along with a new analytical method for the import of material stiffness and failure data directly. The present method is being used to examine the effect of material properties on the failure process. The experimental approaches used to obtain the required data will be described, and preliminary results of the numerical analysis will be presented.

Littell, Justin D.↗

Mixed isoparametric finite element models of laminated composite shells

Mixed shear-flexible isoparametric elements are presented for the stress and free vibration analysis of laminated composite shallow shells. Both triangular and quadrilateral elements are considered. The 'generalized' element stiffness, consistent mass, and consistent load coefficients are obtained by using a modified form of the Hellinger-Reissner mixed variational principle. Group-theoretic techniques are used in conjunction with computerized symbolic integration to obtain analytic expressions for the stiffness, mass and load coefficients. A procedure is outlined for efficiently handling the resulting system of algebraic equations. The accuracy of the mixed isoparametric elements developed is demonstrated by means of numerical examples, and their advantages over commonly used displacement elements are discussed.

Noor, A. K.↗

An improved plate theory of order (1,2) for thick composite laminates

A new (1,2)-order theory is proposed for the linear elasto-static analysis of laminated composite plates. The basic assumptions are those concerning the distribution through the laminate thickness of the displacements, transverse shear strains and the transverse normal stress, with these quantities regarded as some weighted averages of their exact elasticity theory representations. The displacement expansions are linear for the inplane components and quadratic for the transverse component, whereas the transverse shear strains and transverse normal stress are respectively quadratic and cubic through the thickness. The main distinguishing feature of the theory is that all strain and stress components are expressed in terms of the assumed displacements prior to the application of a variational principle. This is accomplished by an a priori least-square compatibility requirement for the transverse strains and by requiring exact stress boundary conditions at the top and bottom plate surfaces. Equations of equilibrium and associated Poisson boundary conditions are derived from the virtual work principle. It is shown that the theory is particularly suited for finite element discretization as it requires simple C(sup 0)- and C(sup -1)-continuous displacement interpolation fields. Analytic solutions for the problem of cylindrical bending are derived and compared with the exact elasticity solutions and those of our earlier (1,2)-order theory based on the assumed displacements and transverse strains.

Tessler, A.↗

Thermal-Mechanical Cyclic Test of a Composite Cryogenic Tank for Reusable Launch Vehicles

This viewgraph presentation provides an overview of thermal-mechanical cyclic tests conducted on a composite cryogenic tank designed for reusable launch vehicles. Topics covered include: a structural analysis of the composite cryogenic tank, a description of Marshall Space Flight Center's Cryogenic Structure Test Facility, cyclic test plans and accomplishments, burst test and analysis and post-testing evaluation.

Messinger, Ross↗

Advances in the analysis and design of adhesive-bonded joints in composite aerospace structures

Several aspects of adhesive-bonded joint analysis and design are presented from the reference of size of structure or load intensity. This integrates the individual characterizations of double-lap, single-lap, stepped-lap, tapered-lap and scarf joints. The paper includes an overview of bonded joint selection from the standpoints of design, fabrication, and processing, each bearing in mind the influence of such considerations on the strength of the joint. A case study is presented of the optimization of a specific relatively thick titanium-to-graphite epoxy stepped-lap joint, using the digital computer analysis program A4EG. The factors accounted for are adhesive plasticity, adherend stiffness imbalance, adherend thermal mismatch, and change of material properties within the range of temperature environment and with load direction. The strength increases obtainable by refining the initial design are demonstrated.

Hart-Smith, L. J.↗

Two-Dimensional Sequential and Concurrent Finite Element Analysis of Unstiffened and Stiffened Aluminum and Composite Panels with Hole

The results of a detailed investigation of the distribution of stresses in aluminum and composite panels subjected to uniform end shortening are presented. The focus problem is a rectangular panel with two longitudinal stiffeners, and an inner stiffener discontinuous at a central hole in the panel. The influence of the stiffeners on the stresses is evaluated through a two-dimensional global finite element analysis in the absence or presence of the hole. Contrary to the physical feel, it is found that the maximum stresses from the glocal analysis for both stiffened aluminum and composite panels are greater than the corresponding stresses for the unstiffened panels. The inner discontinuous stiffener causes a greater increase in stresses than the reduction provided by the two outer stiffeners. A detailed layer-by-layer study of stresses around the hole is also presented for both unstiffened and stiffened composite panels. A parallel equation solver is used for the global system of equations since the computational time is far less than that using a sequential scheme. A parallel Choleski method with up to 16 processors is used on Flex/32 Multicomputer at NASA Langley Research Center. The parallel computing results are summarized and include the computational times, speedups, bandwidths, and their inter-relationships for the panel problems. It is found that the computational time for the Choleski method decreases with a decrease in bandwidth, and better speedups result as the bandwidth increases.

Razzaq, Zia↗

Using High-Fidelity Analysis Methods and Experimental Results to Account for the Effects of Imperfections on the Buckling Response of Composite Shell Structures

The results of an experimental and analytical study of the effects of initial imperfections on the buckling response of unstiffened thin-walled compression-loaded graphite-epoxy cylindrical shells are presented. The analytical results include the effects of traditional and nontraditional initial imperfections and uncertainties in the values of selected shell parameters on the buckling loads of the shells. The nonlinear structural analysis results correlate very well with the experimental results. The high-fidelity nonlinear analysis procedure used to generate the analytical results can also be used to form the basis of a new shell design procedure that could reduce the traditional dependence on empirical results in the shell design process. KEYWORDS: high-fidelity nonlinear structural analysis, composite shells, shell stability, initial imperfections

Starnes, James H., Jr.↗

Interactive program for analysis and design problems in advanced composites technology

During the past year an experimental program in the fracture of advanced fiber composites has been completed. The experimental program has given direction to additional experimental and theoretical work. A synthesis program for designing low weight multifastener joints in composites is proposed, based on extensive analytical background. A number of failed joints have been thoroughly analyzed to evaluate the failure hypothesis used in the synthesis procedure. Finally, a new solution is reported for isotropic and anisotropic laminates using the boundary-integral method. The solution method offers significant savings of computer core and time for important problems.

Cruse, T. A.↗

Analysis of metabolic energy utilization in the Skylab astronauts

Skylab biomedical data regarding man's metabolic processes for extended periods of weightlessness is presented. The data was used in an integrated metabolic balance analysis which included analysis of Skylab water balance, electrolyte balance, evaporative water loss, and body composition. A theoretical analysis of energy utilization in man is presented. The results of the analysis are presented in tabular and graphic format.

Leonard, J. I.↗

Test and analysis of Celion 3000/PMR-15, graphite/polyimide bonded composite joints: Data report

Standard single lap, double lap and symmetric step lap bonded joints of Celion 3000/PMR-15 graphite/polyimide composite were evaluated. Composite to composite and composite to titanium joints were tested at 116 K (-250 F), 294 K (70 F) and 561 K (550 F). Joint parameters evaluated are lap length, adherend thickness, adherend axial stiffness, lamina stacking sequence and adherend tapering. Advanced joint concepts were examined to establish the change in performance of preformed adherends, scalloped adherends and hybrid systems. The material properties of the high temperature adhesive, designated A7F, used for bonding were established. The bonded joint tests resulted in interlaminar shear or peel failures of the composite and there were very few adhesive failures. Average test results agree with expected performance trends for the various test parameters. Results of finite element analyses and of test/analysis correlations are also presented.

Cushman, J. B.↗

Test and analysis of Celion 3000/PMR-15, graphite/polyimide bonded composite joints: Summary

Standard single lap, double lap and symmetric step lap bonded joints of Celion 3000/PMR-15 graphite/polyimide composite were evaluated. Composite to composite and composite to titanium joints were tested at 116K (-250 F), 294K (70 F) and 561K (550 F). Joint parameters evaluated were lap length, adherend thickness, adherend axial stiffness, lamina stacking sequence and adherend tapering. Tests of advanced joint concepts were also conducted to establish the change in performance of preformed adherends, scalloped adherends and hybrid systems. Special tests were conducted to establish material properties of the high temperature adhesive, designated A7F, used for bonding. Most of the bonded joint tests resulted in interlaminar shear or peel failures of the composite. There were very few adhesive failures. Average test results agree with expected performance trends for the various test parameters. Results of finite element analyses and of test/analysis correlations are also presented.

Cushman, J. B.↗

Stability analysis of Centaur-in-Shuttle composite corrugated adapters

This paper evaluates analytically the structural integrity of discretely-loaded, graphite-epoxy, corrugated adapters for the Centaur-in-Shuttle, where combined compression and shear are the critical loads involved. With normal build-ups in the thickness at load introduction boundaries, the structural integrity for both compression and shear buckling was little (or not al all) affected by the discrete load introductions. The analytical tool employed was the STAGSC computer code, and both bifurction buckling and nonlinear collapse options were used; the latter option was limited to shear since postbuckling strength in compression for plate-type structures is governed by crippling strengths, which is not attainable by existing computer codes.

Spier, E. E.↗

Analysis of interlaminar stresses in thick composite laminates with and without edge delamination

The effect of laminate thickness on the interlaminar stresses in rectangular quasi-isotropic laminates under uniform axial strain was studied. Laminates from 8-ply to infinitely thick were analyzed. Thick laminates were synthesized by stacking (45/0/-45/90) ply groups, rather than grouping like plies. Laminates with and without delaminations were studied. In laminates without delaminations, the free-edge interlaminar normal stress distribution in the outer ply groups was insensitive to total laminate thickness. The interlaminar normal stress distribution for the interior ply groups was nearly the same as for an infinitely thick laminate. In contrast, the free-edge inter-laminar shear stress distribution was nearly the same for inner and outer ply groups and was insensitive to laminate thickness. In laminates with delaminations those delaminations near the top and bottom surfaces of a thick laminate have much larger total strain-energy-release rates (G sub t) and mode I-to-total (G sub t/G sub t) ratios than delaminations deep in the interior. Therefore, delaminations can be expected to grow more easily near the surfaces of a laminate than in the interior.

Whitcomb, J. D.↗

Surface analysis of grapite fiber reinforced polyimide composites. I

The results of experimental analyses of the effects of pretreatment on bonding between composite materials are reported. The materials comprised graphite fibers in a polyimide matrix. The surfaces were bonded as-received or subjected to grit blasting, bead blasting, hand sanding, washes with ethanolic KOH, NH2NH2-H2O or H2SO4 + 0.30 H2O2 or flashblasting. SEM and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed fluorine contents in the as-received samples. Contact angles were determined by means of five different liquids with various surface tensions. The flashblast technique removed all fluorine from the samples. Low critical surface tensions were found in the composite surfaces with high fluorine concentrations. The surface scanning techniques are concluded to be useful for studying factors influencing the strength and durability of adhesively bonded composites.

Messick, D. L.↗