Failure analysis of pin-loaded aluminum–glass–epoxy sandwich composite plates

The aim of this study is to investigate failure load and failure mode in an aluminum–glass–epoxy sandwich composite plate, with a circular hole, which is subjected to a traction force by a pin. To evaluate the effects of joint geometry and fiber orientation on the failure strength and failure mode, parametric studies were performed experimentally. The end distance to diameter (E/D), and width to diameter (W/D) ratios in the plate were changed from 1 to 5 and 2 to 5, respectively. Experimental results show that the first failure load and ultimate failure load increase by increasing E/D and W/D ratios, and when these ratios are equal or greater than 4, full bearing strength occurs.