Hidden impact damage in thick compositesNASA is developing light-weight graphite/epoxy filament-wound cases (FWC) for the solid rocket motors of the Space Shuttle. The 12-foot-diameter FWC's are about 1.4 inches or more thick. Tests were conducted to determine the tension strength of an FWC after low-velocity impact. Impactors of various kinetic energies, masses, and shapes were used. The conditions that give minimum visual evidence of damage were emphasized. The capability to characterize impact damage with radiography and ultrasonic attenuation was also evaluated. After impact, the specimens were loaded uniaxially in tension to determine residual strengths.
Document ID
19870023487
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Poe, C. C., Jr. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Illg, W. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Garber, D. P. (PRC Kentron, Inc. Hampton, VA, United States)