Hole Introduction Effect on The E-Glass WR 185 Fibre Reinforcement Polyester

Abstract

Challenge to use a light structural material for aero vehicle could be answered by fibre reinforced polymer composite. This composite has high ratio of strength to weight. In application this composite should be in mechanical assembling such as bolt. So that, investigation of hole introduction on the composite integrity and behaviours are needed. In this study, E-glass WR 185 fibres used as reinforcement in polyester BQIN EX 157 matrix. The composite made by hand lay-up methods; in which 13 layers of E-glass fibres were laminated one by one layer with polyester resin. After dried up, composite was cut off to made specimen for density, tensile and compression test. Some of tensile and compression specimens were drilled (marked as “open hole specimen”) in their centre. The result showed density of 1.12 g/cm3, maximum strength of 178 MPa (tensile) and 130 MPa (compressive). Introducing an open hole reduced strength to 119 MPa (tensile, decreased ∼33%), and to 112 MPa (compressive, ∼14%). Reducing strength is well confirmed with change of failure type; from lateral at grip top (LAT) to lateral gage middle (LGM). LGM of the open hole specimen means crack starting from the hole to both of lateral direction.