Impactor Mass Effects in Glass–Epoxy Composites Subjected to Repeated Drop Tests

Abstract

Experimental studies were carried out to understand the impactor mass effects on glass–epoxy composites using an instrumented impact machine (DYNATUP 8250) under low-velocity test conditions. Repeated drop tests were carried out at pre-determined energy levels for selective mass height combinations. Number of drops to failure (N_f) was chosen as the damage criterion. Analysis of test results clearly showed that, at low incident energies, heavier impactors caused more damage to the laminates as reflected by their lower number of drops to failure. This effect diminished gradually at relatively higher incident energies.