Abstract:
Existing analytical models were modified for the analysis of a scarf repaired composite fabric laminate under unidirectional tension. Both analytical models for stepped-scarf repair and tapered-scarf repair were built, including the structures without extra plies, with one extra ply and with two extra plies. The algorithms were developed and accuracy degree was defined, to assess the accuracy of numerical calculation, implementing a user-friendly software program for the design and analysis of composite scarf repair under tensile load. By running the software, the shear stress/strain distribution in the adhesive layer can be presented, the failure level of repair patch and the base laminate can be evaluated and the ultimate failure load and failure modes can be predicted. T300/CYCOM-970 was used as adherent while METLBOND 1515-4M was used as adhesive. A series of corresponding experiments were conducted for validation. The results calculated by this software show a good agreement with experiment outcomes that the relative errors for stepped-scarf repair are less than 5.7% and the relative errors for tapered-scarf repair are less than 14.0%. This software provides an efficient and accurate preliminary design and analysis tool for the scarf repair of composite fabric laminates.