Stochastic Modelling of Randomly Oriented Tapes Thermoplastic Composites in Net-Shaped Specimens

Discontinuous tape composites have considerable attention due to their high formability and tailorable structures. Despite their advantages, this discontinuity leads to complex structures and makes it difficult to predict their mechanical properties. On the other hand, they have high orientational and dimensional sensitivity, which causes...

Efficient semi-analytical method for the analysis of large finite connected slot arrays

We present an efficient method for the analysis of finite connected slot arrays in the presence of stratified media. The formulation is based on a spectral method of moments, where only one basis function is considered for each array element and one for each slot edge. An expression for the mutual impedance is derived in terms of a double...

Optimum Coil-System Layout for Magnet-Driven Superconducting Magnetic Density Separation

This article discusses the optimum layout of coils of a superconducting magnet system for magnetic density separation (MDS). MDS is a novel separation technology that combines a vertical magnetic field gradient with a ferrofluid to separate mixtures of non-magnetic particles based on their mass density. The MDS process can separate more than...

Controlling the edge effect using a bypass conductor for induction welding of carbon fibre thermoplastic composites

Carbon fibre thermoplastic composites can be induction welded thanks to the electrical conductive nature of carbon fibre. Due to a locally contrained current flow more heat is generated at the edges of the composites. To counteract this so called edge effect a highly conductive material is attached to the edge to create an electrical bypass. The...

A Study of Free Edge Stresses and Delamination Initiation in Fibre Reinforced Composite Laminates

Near free edges of fibre reinforced composite laminates modelled with homogeneous layers, the presence of high gradient interlaminar stresses has been found theoretically. Over a span of nearly 50 years, various methods, including numerical and analytical have been employed for analysis of the high gradient stresses which sometimes exist to an...

Equivalent Transmission Line Models for the Analysis of Edge Effects in Finite Connected and Tightly-Coupled Arrays

In this paper, we present an analysis of the edge effects in wideband connected arrays of slots and dipoles. Due to the strong mutual coupling between the elements, these arrays can support the propagation of guided waves along their surface. Such waves arise from the edges of the finite array and can be<br/>especially detrimental to the...

Predicting Onset of Damage in Special Class of Laminates under Tension

In design with composite materials, the capability of tailoring the properties of the structure with respect to the specific load requirements in each direction, allowed by their anisotropic nature, is coupled with the development of interlaminar stresses transferred through the thickness. Specifically, at the free edge of the laminate, due to...

Characterization and Design of a Readout Circuit for a Piezoelectric-based Acoustic Disdrometer

In 2009, Department of Water Management (DWM) at TU Delft conceptualized the design of a low-cost disdrometer suitable for large scale, remote deployment. But, being a novel idea, its electrical characteristics were not well researched. Also, the system was not sensitive enough to measure the raindrops of diameter less than 0.9mm. Furthermore,...