Composite materials have become widely used in recent times as alternatives to traditional materials. Their low weight, high strength, superior thermal and electrical properties, and ability to be recycled make them attractive for a range of applications. As with any material, to ensure the desired performance from composite materials, it is important to test the materials to industry specifications. This paper will discuss the challenges associated with the selection of appropriate testing standards for composite materials, and the various methods that can be employed to inspect both the raw materials and finished products for quality assurance purposes.
The strength and performance of composite materials can vary widely depending on the type of materials used and the manufacturing process employed. As such, it is important to select appropriate testing standards to ensure that the material is suitable for the intended application. Many industry specifications rely on physical testing, such as 18-8 stainless steel tensile testing, to confirm that the material meets the required strength and stiffness requirements. In addition, tests such as fatigue testing and impact testing are used to assess how the materials perform under cyclic loading, impact, and fatigue. It is also important to consider environmental exposure, such as the effect of ultraviolet radiation, moisture, and temperature, on the material’s properties over time.
Inspecting both the raw materials and finished products for quality assurance is also important, since the properties of a composite material can be significantly altered during the manufacturing process. The visual inspection of a section along the length of the material can reveal inconsistencies such as voids, delamination, and other weaknesses. X-ray yields can provide an indication of the fiber orientation within the material, and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods can be used to detect anomalies that are invisible to the naked eye. Ultrasonic testing, where sound waves are emitted and then detected, can be used to detect bonds between layers of the composite material, or detect the presence of defects in internal structures.
Additionally, chemical analysis techniques can also be used to analyze the composition of a composite material and confirm that it meets industry specifications. Analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) can be used to measure the sizes, shapes, and distribution of the solid particles in the material, providing information about its properties. Analyzing the chemical and physical properties of the individual components, as well as the finished product, helps to ensure that the material will perform as intended in its intended application.
In conclusion, it is important to select appropriate testing standards to ensure that composite materials meet the required strength and performance requirements. In addition, it is also important to inspect both the raw materials and finished products for quality assurance. Visual inspections, X-ray exams, non-destructive testing, and chemical analysis techniques can all be employed to confirm that the material is suitable for its intended purpose. By following these steps, the desired performance from the composite material can be ensured.
