Evaluation of Static Structural Integrity for Composites Wing Structure by Acoustic Emission Technique

Abstract

AE technique was applied to the static structural test of the composite wing structure to evaluate the structural integrity and damage. During the test, strain and displacements measurement technique were used to figure out for static structural strength. AE parameter analysis and source location technique were used to evaluate the internal damage and find out damage source location. Design limit load test, the 1st and 2nd design ultimate load tests and fracture test were performed. Main AE source was detected by an sensor attached on skin near by front lug. Especially, at the 1st design ultimate test, strain and displacements results didn't show internal damage but AE signal presented a phenomenon that the internal damage was formed. At the fracture test, AE activities were very lively, and strain and displacements results showed a tendency that the load path was changed by severe damage. The internal damage initiation load and location were accurately evaluated during the static structural test using AE technique. It is certified from this paper that AE technique is useful technique for evaluation of internal damage at static structural strength test.