The Failure Strength for Pin-Loaded Multi-Directional Fiber-Glass Reinforced Epoxy Laminate

Abstract

In this study, failure characteristics of laminated composites loaded by means of a single fastener were investigated. The development and evaluation of joint capability for both failure mode and ultimate load are the major aims. Tests have been carried out on single pinned joints in multi-directional glassfiber reinforced epoxy for a range of laminate configurationsand specimen geometry. For [90/0]2s and [45]2s laminates with single-hole joints the strengths have been measured; the effects of variables such as ply orientation, laminate edge and side distances were discussed in the light of the results. In addition, by using finite element code PDNLPIN, a static progressive failure analysis was performed. Comparisons were made between the test data and the results of the model. The effect of material nonlinearity on the prediction of the failure loadswas studied. Good agreement was found between numerical predictions and the experimental data.