THE EFFECT OF SIDE LOADS ON THE ENERGY-ABSORPTION OF COMPOSITE STRUCTURES

Slightly tapered truncated cones were manufactured from graphite/epoxy preimpregnated unidirectional tape and were loaded in compression. Different amounts of side loads were introduced by orienting the loading axis away from the central axis of the cone. The cones were crushed under quasi-static conditions, and their energy absorption was measured. For small amounts of side load, the energy absorbency was improved; however, as the amount of side load is increased further, the energy absorption capability of the structure is reduced significantly. Furthermore, a tendency for the specimen to topple is observed as a result of the moment induced by the side loads which reduces the energy absorption properties even further.