Numerical analysis and experiment of composite sandwich T-joints subjected to pulling load

This paper presents an investigation into the failure mechanism and alternative design of composite sandwich T-joints subjected to pulling load. Based on a conventional design of sandwich T-joint as the baseline, numerical modeling and analysis using finite element (FE) method was performed to assess the strength against pulling load. The effect of a cutout in the web panel near the joint has been considered. To validate the models, sandwich T-joint samples were manufactured and tested. Detailed FE analysis and inspection of the experimental results indicated that the failure was mainly due to the excessive stress in the adhesive between the cleat flange and the T-joint base panel. The manufacture defects, which reduced the strength of the T-joint test samples had also been investigated. This has been further demonstrated by experimental results of repaired T-joint samples. A very good correlation between the test data and FE results were obtained. An unconventional design of T-joint for simpler manufacture process was proposed. Based on the design, T-joint samples were modeled, manufactured and tested to demonstrate the manufacture process and evaluate the improved strength.

► A conventional sandwich T-joint was modeled and validated by experiment to predict the ultimate pull-off load and analyze the failure mode.
► The repaired T-joint samples after pull-off test have increased strength.
► An improved design of T-joint was then demonstrated by analysis and experiment.