Experimental study of the strength and durability of metal-composite high-pressure tanks

Abstract

The results of unique experimental studies of the strength and service life of a metal-composite high-pressure tank are presented. The goal of the study is to analyze the fracture mechanisms and evaluate the strength characteristics of the structure. The methodology included tests of full-scale samples of the tank for durability under short-term static, long-term static and cyclic loading with internal pneumatic pressure. Generalized test results and data of visual measurements, instrumental and acoustic-emission control of deformation processes, accumulation of damages and destruction of full-scale tank samples are presented. Analysis of the strength and stiffness of the structure exposed to internal pneumatic pressure is presented. The types of limiting states of the tanks have been established experimentally. Change in the stress-strain state of the tank under cyclic and prolonged static loading is considered. Specific features of the mechanisms of destruction of a metal-composite tank are determined taking into account the role of strain of the metal liner. The calculated and experimental estimates of the energy potential of destruction and the size of the area affected upon destruction of the tank are presented. Analysis of test results showed that the tank has high strength and resource characteristics that meet the requirements of the design documentation. The results of the experiments are in good agreement with the results of numerical calculations and analysis of the stress-strain state and mechanisms of destruction of the metal-composite tank.