Comparative fatigue properties estimation of composite structural nodes

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present the concept of the author’s method of fatigue properties assessment of polymer composite structures, especially structures having nodes of concentrated force introduction (NCFI) using fatigue test data of coupons of similar composites and the ratio of their structural stress rate factors. Design/methodology/approach Basing on fatigue properties of pure composite shells coupons subjected to cyclic loads, and basing on the static strength difference between pure composite shells and shells having the structure affected by NCFI – (considered here as not only a manner of load introduction but also a kind of structural discontinuity), a method of relative fatigue properties reduction (RFPR) was developed. In the RFPR evaluation process, the author used the results of experiments on a special type of an NCFI named “a labyrinth non-adhesive node of concentrated force introduction” (LNA-NCFI) applied in certain composite gliders for fitting glider wings with the fuselage and also referred to design directives relating to primary structure of composite gliders, which are presented in the form of lightness factors linking stress with a structural mass. Findings The result of RFPR method application matched well with the results of fatigue tests of the LNA-NCFI type of a NCFI. The RFPR method may significantly facilitate the estimation of fatigue life of a structure with a structural discontinuity or an NCFI. Practical implications The RFPR method may significantly facilitate the estimation of fatigue life of a structure with a structural discontinuity or an NCFI. Originality/value The paper presents a proposal of a novel simplified method for fatigue life estimation of composite structures having a kind of structural discontinuity or an NCFI.