Analysis of low energy impact on filament-wound composite cylinders

Composite materials are very attractive for structural applications due to its inherent mechanical properties and low density. However, during their service life, composite structures can be damaged by impact such as tool drop during assembly or maintenance. Several studies have been developed for impact on composite plates, but there are only few scientific investigations about impact on composite cylinders. This study presents experimental analyses of low energy impact on filament-wound cylinders. Three different lay-ups were evaluated for 9J and 31J impact levels. Bidirectional strain gauges, one accelerometer sensor, force and displacement sensors were used for data acquisition from the results The influence of the lay up on the behaviour of the filament-wound cylinder was discussed.