Design and Testing
Fiber-optic sensors shed light on the toughest composite design challenges
Designers of composites are learning that if they are to be able to guarantee component and system performance, repeatability and reliability, it is critical that they have access to more sensor and test data.
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Gripping composite test specimens: Options and guidance
Orthotropic behavior of composites test specimens makes load introduction uniquely challenging.
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Application of video extensometry to ASTM D 5656
Reliable, reproducible data is central to the design and delivery of cost-effective bonded assemblies.
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What’s the most important type of mechanical test for composites?
When the opportunity arises, I like to ask those familiar with composites testing this question: What type of mechanical test do they consider to be the most important for composite materials?
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Tackling the traceability of composite materials
Have you ever looked outside an airplane window during in-flight turbulence and wondered how strong the wings really are and how much load they can take?
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Can flexure testing provide estimates of composite strength properties?
Flexure tests are simple to perform, yet the state of stress and failure modes are among the most complex.
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Software has a critical role in certification of composite designs for aerospace
Despite the many advantages that come with using composites materials in aerospace applications, designing weight-bearing structures from these materials remains a significant challenge.
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Choosing composite material testing methods
An initial step in selecting suitable test methods involves consulting the available test literature.
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How ready are progressive damage analysis tools?
In the past 15 years, progressive damage analysis (PDA) for composites, implemented in finite element analysis software, has been under development.
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Best practices for V-notched shear testing of composites
In my October 2015 column, I wrote an overview of the widely used V-notched shear test methods for composite materials. In this column, we focus on some additional best practices when performing V-notched shear testing of fiber-reinforced composites.
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