Equi-energetic Low-velocity Impact Effects on the Compression After Impact Strength of Carbon Fiber Composite Tube Structures

Abstract

This study explores the effect of equi-energetic low-velocity impact on the compression after impact (CAI) strength of tubular composite structures. The effects of equi-energetic impact energies are explored, where high-mass-low-velocity (HMLV) and low-mass-high-velocity (LMHV) test configurations are used at three impact energy levels using Instron CEAST 9350 impact test machine. Various tube diameters (76.2 mm and 101.6 mm) are also considered to achieve a better understanding of tube geometries on CAI residual strength. The impact force-time graphs and force-displacement curves are used to analyze the impact responses and damage mechanisms. The results indicate that impact energy, impactor mass, and tube diameter play a significant role in impact response. The larger diameter tubes can withstand higher compressive loads regardless of impact damage, showing significant drops for smaller UT tubes while the larger diameter tube can maintain more of their compressive strength. This study provides insights into the behavior of composite tubes under LVI and highlights the importance of considering impact effects when evaluating the structural integrity and strength of composite materials.