Analysis of a Rectangular FML composite subjected to coupled thermo-mechanical multi-axial loading

Abstract

Glare composites are a new set of materials with a combination of metal- fibre layers where glass fibre/epoxy and aluminium alloy are used as its constituent elements. By varying the constituent proportions and types the behaviour of the material changes. In the present study, Glare 4B combination is considered with specific overall thickness as constant and varying the ply thickness by changing the number of plies in each set as 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 plies. The effect of number of layers and aspect ratios over the failure mechanical properties when subjected to coupled thermo – mechanical multi – axle loading conditions is under study. As number of layers increases each individual layer thickness goes on reducing and the effect of it over failure loads is presented.  As the aspect ratio increases the relative comparable factor value is diminishing. Aspect ratio of 1 is considered to be better choice as S1 & S2 at bottom and top layers are inhibiting the stress limits. When it is required for an alternative value as per design considerations it is good to choose aspect ratio of 1.25.