Composites Project

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to use a common type of composite (Styrofoam and Epoxy) and determine how well it performs under the stress of the stress analyzer 1000

Procedure

• Cut the Styrofoam into the pre-set 2 x 2 x 12 inches and 2 x .5 x 12 inches
• Cut the bidirectional fiberglass into 12 inch strips
• Mix one pump of Epoxy with one pump of the resin and stir together
• Coat the front and back of each Styrofoam block with the Epoxy and place a strip of bidirectional fiberglass on the block
• Apply another layer of Epoxy and fiberglass on top of your pre-existing layer
• Let dry over night
• Drill a 3/4 inch hole into the center of the beam
• Place the block into the SSA1000 and run the simulation

Beam Construction

• Measure out the desired values you wish to cut (2 x 2 x 12 inches and 2 x .5 x 12 inches)
• Turn the Styrofoam cutter on
• While the wire heats up, watch the boys make inappropriate objects with other Styrofoam cutter
• Slowly move first Styrofoam outline along the cutter where you wish to cut it
• Repeat for second block

Matrix & Reinforcement

<Detailed description of the application of fiberglass and epoxy. Mention both fiberglass types and what sides they were applied to.>

• Get a cup and mixing stick you can use to mix the epoxy and resin
• Put one pump of both the epoxy and resin in the cup and mix together
• Spread epoxy on both sides of the Styrofoam and put the fiberglass strips on the epoxy
• Spread more epoxy on previously place fiberglass strips and place another fiberglass strip on top
• Repeat for other block

Finished Composites

Our composite is composed of Bidirectional Fiberglass, Epoxy, and Styrofoam. The two sizes of the composites are 2 x 2 x 12 and .5 x 2 x 12

Deflection Testing

The 2 x 2 x 12 block went off very nice, though not actually breaking, allowing us to test the material again with similar results. The .5 x 2 x 12 did bend significantly, however, the machine noted no force.

These pictures describe how to find the moment of inertia as well as how to find the deflection and the Modulus of Elasticity

Data

Conclusion

1. Based upon this information, explain if this materials appropriate for use as a main wing spar.

No. This material is not able to support the forces that occur during flight.

2. Explain if it is appropriate for an aircraft floor.

Possibly, if you had a large enough height to reduce the deflection to close to zero.

3. Explain if it is appropriate for a strut.

No. Never try that. That would be terrible. There is far too much force for Styrofoam to support the forces that occur while landing.