Failure analysis of a frangible laminated composite canister cover

The static burst strength of a frangible laminated composite canister cover subjected to uniform pressure is studied via both theoretical and experime ntal approaches. The frangible canister cover, which is fabricated with fou r plate-like laminated composite parts, is designed to fail in a predetermi ned pattern. The stress distribution in the canister cover is determined us ing the finite element method and the failure of the cover is identified on the basis of a failure criterion. A number of laminated composite canister covers were fabricated and subjected to static burst pressure testing. The failure modes of the frangible covers are studied and the experimental res ults are used to verify the theoretical predictions. Close agreements betwe en the experimental and theoretical results have been observed. The caniste r covers that had been tested did fail in accordance with the predetermined pattern.