Sustained load behavior of graphite/epoxy metal-lined pressure vessels for long-life space applications

Tests were performed on candidate graphite yarns for the overwraps to be used on the Space Station Freedom's pressure vessels. The objective was to determine the performance and ranking of these overwraps to ensure that sustained loads would not be a problem during their 30-yr life in space. Tests were conducted at high stress levels for short time periods on subscale composite bottles. The average delivered fiber stresses were determined from the measured burst pressures via SCI analysis that accounts for both geometry and the properties of the resin and yarn.