Abstract
Bearing strength of four pitch-based and two PAN-based carbon fiber composite materials of [0°/±45°/90°]3S laminate has been measured. The specimens, which had different bearing hole position and width, were prepared and tested to investigate the effects of geometrical parameters on the bearing strength and failure mode. The bearing strength was correlated with the mechanical properties of longitudinal reinforcing fibers and discussed based on the microstructural damage examination by using an optical microscope.
The following concluding remarks were derived.
(1) The full bearing strength was developed when the edge distance ratio, e/D, was equal to or larger than 3.0 and the side distance ratio, w/D, was equal to or larger than 4.0 for both high tensile and high modulus carbon fiber composite materials.
(2) As the fiber strain to failure became higher and also as the longitudinal compressive strength of unidirectional composites became higher, the bearing strength became higher. No correlation was apparent between tensile strength of the fiber and the baring strength.
