Abstract:

ESDU 84027 gives results extracted from the literature of narrow band random amplitude, with zero mean, fatigue endurance tests as plots of rms strain against cycles to failure. Lives were in the range of 1000 cycles to 100 million cycles and specimens were either plain or representative of bonded or riveted skin-rib construction in which case adjacent panels were vibrated in-phase. Skins were laminates of epoxy/carbon fibre or of metal and glass fibre reinforced plastic layers and stringers were made of similar materials to the skins although some titanium stringers were tested. Details are included of specimens (materials, construction and dimensions), test methods, and definition of failure. The effects of layering sequence, method of attachment, fibre/matrix material, moisture, load truncation, elevated temperature and prior impact damage are discussed briefly.