Effect of Through-Thickness Stitching on the Fatigue Life of Composite Single-Lap Joints

Lalit K. Jain, K. H. Leong, Yiu Wing Mai, Liyong Tong

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

18 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

An exploratory experimental evaluation has been undertaken to investigate the effect of through-thickness stitching on the fatigue life of composite single lap joints. Balanced single lap joints were considered, and the lay-up for the adherends was (0/±45/90)s Specimens were stitched transversely and through-the-thickness with Kevlar® thread in a zigzag pattern and were manufactured using the resin transfer moulding (RTM) technique. Preliminary experimental results have indicated that stitches remain intact when the crack starts growing from either side of the overlap. This consequently imparts a significant improvement in the fatigue life of stitched versus unstitched counterparts.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)399-409
Number of pages11
JournalApplied Composite Materials
Volume5
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1998
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cycles to failure
  • Fatigue life
  • Resin transfer moulding
  • Single lap joints
  • Strength
  • Through-thickness stitching

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ceramics and Composites

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