Low Velocity Impact Response of Thin Walled Graphite/Epoxy Cylinders

Abstract

Helical and hoop wound graphite/epoxy (Gr/Ep) composite cylinders have been tested under low velocity impact under simply supported boundary conditions, in two phases. In Phase I, the impact energy levels ranged from 1 to 6 ft-lbs, (1 ft-lb = 1.35J) while in Phase II, the impact energy levels ranged from 35 ft lbs-50 ft lbs. Pre- and Post-impact ultrasonic C-scans have been conducted. The fiber bundles and the winding angle(s) are well resolved through the C-scans. Vibration based NDE has been conducted prior to and after impact to determine modal response of the composite cylinders under a simply supported boundary condition. The modal density of the helical wound cylinders is found to be higher than the hoop wound, while the hoop wound cylinders exhibit higher stiffness. The microstructure of some of the cylinders has been studied by sectioning them at impact locations.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Nov 15, 1998
Source ID
10.1115/imece1998-0521

Entities

People

  • Michael V. Jones
  • Mohan V. Kamath
  • Robert Evans
  • Terry Vandiver
  • Uday K. Vaidya

Organizations

  • Tuskegee University
  • United States Army Aviation and Missile Command

Tags

Readers

  • Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics.
  • Reinforced Composite Materials
  • Structural Health Monitoring of Composite Structures.