Output details
15 - General Engineering
University of Bristol
A simplified approach to the damage tolerance design of asymmetric tapered laminates. Part I: Methodology development
Ply drop-offs are important source of defects that cause premature failure of composite structures. Paper provides analytical method for estimating energy release rate associated with delaminations emanating from ply drop-offs. Method constitutes basis of Automated Laminate Tapering Optimiser (ALTO), that allows optimisation of ply drop-off sequence in tapered laminates. ALTO has currently reached Technology Readiness Level 5 according to Rolls-Royce's internal "critical capability acquisition process" and has been employed for design of composite fan-containment cases and engine vanes [contact: Composites UTC Coordinator, Rolls-Royce plc.].