LOW VELOCITY IMPACT BEHAVIOR OF FIBER METAL LAMINATES STRUCTURES

Abstract

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) consist of layers of thin metal sheets and fiber-reinforced composite layers bonded together. In this study, two different types of FMLs were manufactured and investigated. Each of them is FML 3/2-(0.4) with base metal aluminum 2024-T3, and with two woven (0/90) type fiber/epoxy laminates for each composite layer. Difference between two types is for fiber type. FMLs were prepared using VAP (Vacuum-Assisted process) as a traditional and low-cost process supported by a distributed weight pressure and vacuum. In order to qualify the manufacturing method and samples, the characterization of these two types of FMLs was verified. This description includes the determination of physical material constituents, tensile testing, bending test, quasi-static indentation test, and low-speed impact test. In order to performing impact test, the low velocity test rig was designed and manufactured according to standards and requirements for drop impact test. Characterization results were compared with theoretical calculations. Failure situations also were discussed.