Temperature Effect on Buckling Properties of Thin-Walled Composite Profile Subjected to Axial Compression

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of temperature variations on the buckling properties of thin-walled omega-profiles fabricated from carbon-epoxy composite materials. Utilizing a MTS testing machine, compression tests were conducted on these profiles at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 80°C, in 20°C increments. The primary objective was to assess how temperature fluctuations impact the buckling load and load-bearing capacity of these composite profiles under axial compression. The experimental setup allowed for precise measurement of load-displacement and load-deflection characteristics, and the critical load at which buckling initiation occurred. Observations revealed that the buckling resistance of the profiles exhibited a complex dependence on temperature. At lower temperatures, the composite material demonstrated enhanced stiffness and strength, marginally increasing buckling resistance. Conversely, at elevated temperatures, a noticeable degradation in mechanical properties was observed, leading to a reduced buckling load and altered failure modes. To complement the experimental findings, a comprehensive finite element (FE) analysis was conducted for sample in room temperature. The FE model, developed to replicate the experimental conditions closely, employed an eigenvalue-based approach to predict the buckling initiation and progression accurately. The presented results are the results of only preliminary tests and they will be expand about more samples number as well as to determine material properties for various temperatures.