Environmental characterization of VARTM repair technology
Abstract
The CH-53K is a heavy lift helicopter, successor of the CH-53E, currently being developed by Sikorsky Aircraft. This new helicopter makes extensive use of carbon fiber composites in order to reduce weight and be able to increase its payload and endurance, while maintaining structural reliability. In 2010 Purdue University validated a field level VARTM (Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding) repair technique. Using representative sandwich panel structures from the helicopter, the repair proved to return the structural integrity to the sandwich panel through the use of a bonded carbon fiber patch. This thesis aims to investigate and characterize the environmental effects on the mechanical properties of the patch. More specifically the bond line of the repair patch will be tested at different temperatures and moisture levels.
Degree
M.S.A.A.
Advisors
Pipes, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Mechanics|Aerospace engineering|Mechanical engineering
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