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At least 325 records · Page 18

Effect of the amount of Na2SO4 on the high temperature corrosion of Udimet-700

The corrosion of Udimet-700, coated with different doses of Na2SO4, was studied in an isothermal thermogravimetric test in the temperature range 900 to 950 C. The weight gain curve is characterized by five distinct stages: an initial period of linear corrosion; an induction period; a period of accelerated corrosion; a period of decelerating corrosion; and a period of parabolic oxidation. The time required for the failure of the alloy increases with an increase in the amount of Na2SO4, reaches a peak and then decreases with further increase in the amount of Na2SO4. For low and intermediate doses (0.3 to 2.0 mg/sq cm), the catastrophic failure of the material occurs by the formation of Na2MoO4 and interaction of the liquid Na2MoO4 with the alloy. For heavy doses, the degradation of the material is due to the formation of large amounts of sulfides.

Misra, A. K.↗

Particulate erosion mechanisms

Particulate damage and erosion of ductile metals are today plaguing design and field engineers in diverse fields of engineering and technology. It was found that too many models and theories were proposed leading to much speculation from debris analysis and failure mechanism postulations. Most theories of solid particle erosion are based on material removal models which do not fully represent the actual physical processes of material removal. The various mechanisms proposed thus far are: melting, low-cycle fatigue, extrusion, delamination, shear localization, adhesive material transfer, etc. The experimental data on different materials highlighting the observed failure modes of the deformation and cutting wear processes using optical and scanning electron microscopy are presented. The most important mechanisms proved from the experimental observations of the specimens exposed to both spherical and angular particles are addressed, and the validity of the earlier theories discussed. Both the initial stages of damage and advanced stages of erosion were studied to gain a fundamental understanding of the process.

Veerabhadrarao, P.↗

Simulation of contact surface erosion for impact problems

An algorithm is outlined for simulating the contact surface erosion for impact problems. The algorithm dynamically relocates the contact surface as projectile and target materials exceed their failure criterion. Example computations of axisymmetric and oblique impacts are compared with experimental data.

Kimsey, K. D.↗

Measuring Hole Elongation in Bolted Joints

Measurement does not affect joint parameters. Verification of analytical and strength-prediction methods for bolted composite joints based generally on data obtained experimentally from double-lap-joint specimens. In mechanically fastened joints, stresses maximal at fastener holes. Ability to measure accurately hole elongations without affecting joint parameters provides better understanding of elastic and plastic behavior of joint material leading to failure mechanisms in mechanically fastened joints required for design of more-efficient, lightweight composite joints.

Wichorek, G. R.↗

A new ply model for interlaminar stress analysis

An accurate estimate of interlaminar stresses is crucial to understanding, as well as predicting, many delamination-related failures in composite materials. A new model for ply-level sublaminate analysis is presented and applied. The homogeneous plate theory developed earlier by the authors (Valisetty and Rehfield, 1983) is further refined, and the equations are reduced appropriately for the classical finite-width free-edge laminate elasticity problem and a related delamination crack growth problem. It is applied to the laminate on a ply-by-ply basis. This theory incorporates all the essential physical effects and appears to be an adequate model for predicting the behavior of individual layers in equilibrium. On the basis of the number of equations and boundary conditions required for the implementation of layer equilibrium, this theory also appears to be the simplest of its kind presented so far. The stress induced in the free-edge region of a (0,90,90,0) laminate in uniform extension and the energy release rates for the delamination between the -30 deg and 90 deg plies of a (+, -30,+, -30, 90,90)s laminate are computed using the new analysis. The results are in excellent agreement with the existing numerical solutions. The new ply behavioral model appears to be very promising; it yields stresses and displacements that are statically and kinematically compatible at interlaminar surfaces.

Rao Valisetty, R.↗

Mechanical behavior of thermal barrier coatings for gas turbine blades

Plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) will enable turbine components to operate at higher temperatures and lower cooling gas flow rates; thereby improving their efficiency. Future developments are limited by precise knowledge of the material properties and failure mechanisms of the coating system. Details of this nature are needed for realistic modeling of the coating system which will, in turn, promote advancements in coating technology. Complementary experiments and analytical modeling which were undertaken in order to define and measure the important failure processes for plasma-sprayed coatings are presented. The experimental portion includes two different tests which were developed to measure coating properties. These are termed tensile adhesion and acoustic emission tests. The analytical modeling section details a finite element method which was used to calculate the stress distribution in the coating system. Some preliminary results are presented.

Berndt, C. C.↗

Scaling Of Responses Of Composite Beams

Report describes series of experiments in which scale-model composite beams made of matrix/fiber composite materials tested to failure under combined axial compressive and bending loads. Discusses scaling effects in static large-deflection response of composite beams.

Jackson, Karen E.↗

Thermal verification testing of commercial printed-circuit boards for spaceflight

A method is discussed developed to verify commercial printed-circuit boards for a shuttle orbital flight. The Space Acceleration Measurement System Project used this method first with great success. The test sequence is based on early fault detection, desire to test the final assembly, and integration with other verification testing. A component thermal screening test is performed first to force flaws in design, workmanship, parts, processes, and materials into observable failures. Then temperature definition tests are performed that consist of infrared scanning, thermal vacuum testing, and preliminary thermal operational testing. Only the engineering unit is used for temperature definition testing, but the preliminary thermal operational testing is performed on the flight unit after the temperature range has been defined. In the sequence of testing, vibration testing is performed next, but most vibration failures cannot be detected without subsequent temperature cycling. Finally, final assembly testing is performed to simulate the shuttle flight. An abbreviated thermal screening test is performed as a check after the vibration test, and then a complete thermal operational test is performed. The final assembly test finishes up with a burn-in of 100 hours of trouble-free operation. Verification is successful when all components and final assemblies have passed each test satisfactory. This method was very successful in verifying that commercial printed-circuit boards will survive in the shuttle environment.

Foster, William M., II↗

Thermal verification testing of commercial printed-circuit boards for spaceflight

A method developed to verify commercial printed-circuit boards for a Shuttle orbital flight is discussed. The test sequence is based on early fault detection, desire to test the final assembly, and integration with other verification testing. A component thermal screening test is performed first to force flaws in design, workmanship, parts, processes, and materials into observable failures. Temperature definition and vibration tests are performed next. Final assembly testing is performed to simulate the Shuttle flight. An abbreviated thermal screening test is performed as a check after the vibration test, and then a complete thermal operational test is performed. The final assembly test finishes up with a burn-in of 100 h of trouble-free operation. Verification is successful when all components and final assemblies have passed each test. This method was very successful in verifying that commercial printed-circuit boards will survive in the Shuttle environment.

Foster, William M., II↗

Development of thermoplastic composite aircraft structures

Efforts focused on the use of thermoplastic composite materials in the development of structural details associated with an advanced fighter fuselage section with applicability to transport design. In support of these designs, mechanics developments were conducted in two areas. First, a dissipative strain energy approach to material characterization and failure prediction, developed at the Naval Research Laboratory, was evaluated as a design/analysis tool. Second, a finite element formulation for thick composites was developed and incorporated into a lug analysis method which incorporates pin bending effects. Manufacturing concepts were developed for an upper fuel cell cover. A detailed trade study produced two promising concepts: fiber placement and single-step diaphragm forming. Based on the innovative design/manufacturing concepts for the fuselage section primary structure, elements were designed, fabricated, and structurally tested. These elements focused on key issues such as thick composite lugs and low cost forming of fastenerless, stiffener/moldine concepts. Manufacturing techniques included autoclave consolidation, single diaphragm consolidation (SDCC) and roll-forming.

Renieri, Michael P.↗

Damage tolerance in filament-wound graphite/epoxy pressure vessels

Graphite/epoxy composites are extensively used in the aerospace and sporting goods industries due to their superior engineering properties compared to those of metals. However, graphite/epoxy is extremely susceptible to impact damage which can cause considerable and sometimes undetected reduction in strength. An inelastic impact model was developed to predict damage due to low-velocity impact. A transient dynamic finite element formulation was used in conjunction with the 3D Tsai-Wu failure criterion to determine and incorporate failure in the materials during impact. Material degradation can be adjusted from no degradation to partial degradation to full degradation. The developed software is based on an object-oriented implementation framework called Extensible Implementation Framework for Finite Elements (EIFFE).

Simon, William E.↗

Instrumented Materials Testing

This presentation starts with an introduction to the need for materials testing. Classic failures (such as brittle ship hull fractures) are discussed before fundamental discoveries in fracture analysis (Griffith, Westergaard, and Irwin). Next standard tests are identified, followed by a look at brittle versus ductile failure. Griffith's result (the composite paradigm) that smaller composite specimens are stronger because they have smaller flaws, is covered. This leads into composite tests. And finally, stress waves are shown as an example that will initiate damage.

Mackin, Thomas J.↗

High-Temperature Slow Crack Growth of Silicon Carbide Determined by Constant-Stress-Rate and Constant-Stress Testing

High-temperature slow-crack-growth behaviour of hot-pressed silicon carbide was determined using both constant-stress-rate ("dynamic fatigue") and constant-stress ("static fatigue") testing in flexure at 1300 C in air. Slow crack growth was found to be a governing mechanism associated with failure of the material. Four estimation methods such as the individual data, the Weibull median, the arithmetic mean and the median deviation methods were used to determine the slow crack growth parameters. The four estimation methods were in good agreement for the constant-stress-rate testing with a small variation in the slow-crack-growth parameter, n, ranging from 28 to 36. By contrast, the variation in n between the four estimation methods was significant in the constant-stress testing with a somewhat wide range of n= 16 to 32.

Choi, Sung H.↗

Influence of Molecular Weight on the Mechanical Performance of a Thermoplastic Glassy Polyimide

Mechanical Testing of an advanced thermoplastic polyimide (LaRC-TM-SI) with known variations in molecular weight was performed over a range of temperatures below the glass transition temperature. The physical characterization, elastic properties and notched tensile strength were all determined as a function of molecular weight and test temperature. It was shown that notched tensile strength is a strong function of both temperature and molecular weight, whereas stiffness is only a strong function of temperature. A critical molecular weight (Mc) was observed to occur at a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of approx. 22000 g/mol below which, the notched tensile strength decreases rapidly. This critical molecular weight transition is temperature-independent. Furthermore, inelastic analysis showed that low molecular weight materials tended to fail in a brittle manner, whereas high molecular weight materials exhibited ductile failure. The microstructural images supported these findings.

Nicholson, Lee M.↗

Mechanical Properties of LaRC(tm) SI Polymer for a Range of Molecular Weights

Mechanical testing of an advanced polyimide resin (LaRC(tm)-SI) with known variations in molecular weight was performed over a range of temperatures below the glass transition temperature. Elastic and inelastic properties were characterized as a function of molecular weight and test temperature. It was shown that notched tensile strength is a strong function of both temperature and molecular weight, whereas stiffness is only a strong function of temperature. The combined analysis of calculated yield stress and notched tensile strength indicated that low molecular weight materials tended to fail in a brittle manner, whereas high molecular weight materials exhibited ductile failure. The microphotographs of the failure surfaces also supported these findings.

Whitley, Karen S.↗

Design/Analysis of Metal/Composite Bonded Joints for Survivability at Cryogenic Temperatures

A major design and analysis challenge for the JWST ISM structure is the metal/composite bonded joints that will be required to survive down to an operational ultra-low temperature of 30K (-405 F). The initial and current baseline design for the plug-type joint consists of a titanium thin walled fitting (1-3mm thick) bonded to the interior surface of an M555/954-6 composite truss square tube with an axially stiff biased lay-up. Metallic fittings are required at various nodes of the truss structure to accommodate instrument and lift-point bolted interfaces. Analytical experience and design work done on metal/composite bonded joints at temperatures below liquid nitrogen are limited and important analysis tools, material properties, and failure criteria for composites at cryogenic temperatures are virtually nonexistent. Increasing the challenge is the difficulty in testing for these required tools and parameters at 30K. A preliminary finite element analysis shows that failure due to CTE mismatch between the biased composite and titanium or aluminum is likely. Failure is less likely with Invar, however an initial mass estimate of Invar fittings demonstrates that Invar is not an automatic alternative. In order to gain confidence in analyzing and designing the ISM joints, a comprehensive joint development testing program has been planned and is currently running. The test program is designed for the correlation of the analysis methodology, including tuning finite element model parameters, and developing a composite failure criterion for the effect of multi-axial composite stresses on the strength of a bonded joint at 30K. The testing program will also consider stress mitigation using compliant composite layers and potential strength degradation due to multiple thermal cycles. Not only will the finite element analysis be correlated to the test data, but the FEA will be used to guide the design of the test. The first phase of the test program has been completed and the preliminary analysis has been revisited based on the test data In this work, we present an overview of the test plan, results today, and resulting design improvements.

Bartoszyk, Andrew E.↗

Modeling Code Is Helping Cleveland Develop New Products

Master Builders, Inc., is a 350-person company in Cleveland, Ohio, that develops and markets specialty chemicals for the construction industry. Developing new products involves creating many potential samples and running numerous tests to characterize the samples' performance. Company engineers enlisted NASA's help to replace cumbersome physical testing with computer modeling of the samples' behavior. Since the NASA Lewis Research Center's Structures Division develops mathematical models and associated computation tools to analyze the deformation and failure of composite materials, its researchers began a two-phase effort to modify Lewis' Integrated Composite Analyzer (ICAN) software for Master Builders' use. Phase I has been completed, and Master Builders is pleased with the results. The company is now working to begin implementation of Phase II.

Source record↗

Design/Analysis of the JWST ISIM Bonded Joints for Survivability at Cryogenic Temperatures

A major design and analysis challenge for the JWST ISIM structure is thermal survivability of metal/composite bonded joints below the cryogenic temperature of 30K (-405 F). Current bonded joint concepts include internal invar plug fittings, external saddle titanium/invar fittings and composite gusset/clip joints all bonded to M55J/954-6 and T300/954-6 hybrid composite tubes (75mm square). Analytical experience and design work done on metal/composite bonded joints at temperatures below that of liquid nitrogen are limited and important analysis tools, material properties, and failure criteria for composites at cryogenic temperatures are sparse in the literature. Increasing this challenge is the difficulty in testing for these required tools and properties at cryogenic temperatures. To gain confidence in analyzing and designing the ISIM joints, a comprehensive joint development test program has been planned and is currently running. The test program is designed to produce required analytical tools and develop a composite failure criterion for bonded joint strengths at cryogenic temperatures. Finite element analysis is used to design simple test coupons that simulate anticipated stress states in the flight joints; subsequently the test results are used to correlate the analysis technique for the final design of the bonded joints. In this work, we present an overview of the analysis and test methodology, current results, and working joint designs based on developed techniques and properties.

Bartoszyk, Andrew↗