Multiple Reinforced Composites, the Possible Solutions to Avoid Delamination in Composite Rocket Motor Casings

In this paper, the detail study of occurrence of delamination at Y-joint during the proof pressure test of a typical composite rocket motor casing (CRMC) is described systematically. The extent of delamination is identified by non-destructive testing methods and the reasons for delaminations are identified by finite element analysis. Finite element analysis is carried out for both the cases with delamination and without delamination, and structural response is observed. Based on finite element analysis results, corresponding delamination factor is calculated. Numbers of iteration have been carried out to obtain the remedial solution to avoid the occurrence of delamination during PPT. Thus, the remedial solution leads to a development of composite material which is the combination of E-glass fibre and carbon fibre as reinforcement and epoxy as a matrix. This composite material is applied at Y-joints to overcome this problem. The composite material which is a combination of E-glass fibre and carbon fibre with epoxy as a matrix can be termed as a multiple reinforced composite. This concept of composite material can be used to avoid delamination problems in other composite products also.