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Engineering SolverBackground Info |
BackgroundMany composites show a combination of strength and stiffness that is as good as or better than traditional metallic materials. However, because of their anisotropic behaviour it can be more difficult to design with these materials. In addition because of uncertainties over their properties and performance large safety factors are often incorporated into the design reducing the range of applications across which composites are economic. The Composites Performance and Design (CPD) programme of research, supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), aimed to increase confidence in the use of composites. This was achieved by improving the understanding of materials behaviour and performance; developing new measurement methods, equipment and standards; providing predictive procedures for composite material response, and providing design methodologies and software. This programme represented the UK in international standardisation of composite test methods. Activities included preparation of test methods in a form suitable for standardisation and support to existing draft standards as passed through the ballot and approval process. Project members had the opportunity to attend BSI, ISO and CEN committees to actively progress UK preferences and test method developments. The CPD Projects covered :
1. Designing with composites.
2. Predicting service life.
3. Interface characterisation and behaviour.
4. Manufacture and design: specific issues.
Layer property PredictionLaminate Stress AnalysisFailure CriteriaComputer Codes for DesignMaterialsManufacturing IssuesDesign Basics |