Inspection of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites with Planar and Crack Defects by Active Thermography Method

Carbon fiber reinforced composites (CFRPs) are used in various fields such as automotive, aerospace, offshore structures, oil and gas industry and marine. Presence of defects such as cracks, delamination and detachment could affect on the mechanical and chemical properties of these materials and reduce the strength of the structures. Consequently in order to ensure the proper performance of fabricated parts, Nondestructive testing (NDT) shall be employed. Among the thermography methods of composites, IR thermography is well-known. In present research Active IR Thermography was employed in order to inspect of carbon fiber reinforced composites (CFRPs). CFRP samples prepared by hand lay-up method. Two types of defects including planar defect and crack were created on the samples. At first stage planar defects were selected in three different size. At the next stage planar defects were placed in three different depths with the same size. Cracks were created on the samples by means of a riser with two different lengths. Active Thermography was performed in transmission mode. Optical excitation was conducted by employing a high power Flash lamp. Thermal images obtained for all samples. Results indicated proper capability of active thermography in inspection of carbon fiber reinforced composites.

Keywords:

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites , Active Thermography , Crack , Planar Defect