The effect of stacking sequence on the bearing strengths of quasi-isotropic composite laminates

Abstract

The pin-bearing strengths of eight different stacking sequences of quasiisotropic CFRP laminates were measured. The failure mechanisms were studied from scanning electron microscopy of the inside of the hole. An attempt was made to correlate the results with a simple estimate of the interlaminar normal stress distribution around the loaded half of the hole. The damage development in the presence of lateral restraint (from a torque-tightened bolt) was also examined. In general the presence of clamp-up inhibited local bearing (delamination) failure.