Durability and damage tolerance of out-of-autoclave composites for helicopter applications

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

All aircraft structures are exposed to a wide range of operational environments and contaminants. Of particularconcern are contaminants such as salt water, hydraulic fluid and fresh water - especially when combined withstatic and fatigue loading in helicopter structures. A design of experiment approach will be used to identifyand isolate mechanical parameters and exposure conditions of interest. To support this design of experimentprocess, surveys of operators and maintainers will be conducted to identify typical contamination events andspecific maintenance concerns. Several rounds of mechanical testing following exposure to variouscontaminants. Basic finite element analysis will also be carried out on various configurations to examine theeffect of exposure on mechanical properties. Recommendations for maintenance planning and repair strategieswill be provided to the industrial partner.