Strain Rate Effects on the Energy Absorption of Rapidly Manufactured Composite Tubes

Quasi-static and intermediate rate axial crush tests were conducted on tubular specimens of Carbon/Epoxy (Toray T700/G83C) and Glass/Polypropylene (Twintex). The quasi-static tests were conducted at 10 mm/min (1.67 x 10(-4) m/s); five different crush initiators were used. Tests at intermediate rates were performed at speeds of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 2, and 4 m/s. Modes of failure and specific energy absorption (SEA) values were studied. The highest SEA measured was 86 kJ/kg. This value was observed using Carbon/Epoxy samples at quasi static rates with a 45 degrees chamfer initiator. The highest energy absorption for Twintex tubes was observed to be 57.56 kJ/kg during 45 degrees chamfer initiated tests at 0.25 m/s. Compared with steel and aluminium, SEA values of 15 and 30 kJ/kg, respectively, the benefits of using composite materials in crash structures become apparent.