Design and Validation of Standardized Wave Slam Test Equipment and Time-Temperature Superposition Procedures Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Topic No.: N08-086 Topic Title: Design and Validation of Standardized Wave Slam Test Equipment and Time-Temperature Superposition Procedures Proposal No.: N081-086-0794 Firm: KaZaK Composites Incorporated 10F GIll Street Woburn, Massachusetts 01801-1721 Contact: Mike McAleenan Phone: (207) 371-2568 Web Site: kazakcomposites.com Abstract: Wave slam loading on hull structures are characterized by a rapid rise to a very high peak pressure, followed by a slower drop to a longer duration, lower pressure. An event can be as short as 10 msec, with a 200 psi peak pressure. Loads of this type are known to be a major consideration in the design of composite high speed hulls, but to date no efficient method for testing panels in a laboratory with a properly simulated loading has been developed. KaZaK Composites proposes the design, development and demonstration of a novel test method capable of rapidly loading multiple composite panels with an accurate simulation of wave slam pressure-time pulse. KaZaK's system will feature multiple panels loaded at the same time, as well as provisions to incorporate accelerated aging technology to further reduce test time. We will work with a commercial boat builder with industry-leading slam test experience, as well as a world-renowned composite test expert to ensure that our evolving test process far exceeds current state of the art. Our Phase I program will conclude with hardware demonstration of the test procedure concept. The ultimate objective will be ASTM certification of the proposed methodology. Benefits: There will be increasing emphasis on the importance of wave slam testing and analysis capability as both commercial and military ship builders continue to push for vessels capable of higher speeds and lighter weight. Demand for high performance will in turn result in an increased use of composite materials in both solid laminate and sandwich panel forms. The desire for accurate wave slam testing technology as well as rapid fatigue cycling should grow in parallel with the use of composites, since these lightweight panels are prone to damage when exposed to repeated and / or severe slam loading. The proposed system will be useful for all future ship hull designers, as well as other users of lightweight composite sandwich panels that operate in extreme environments. In addition to wave slam, the proposed machine can be used to load panels with a variety of other pressure-time histories, allowing it to be used for simulation of other extreme loading conditions such as hurricane induced vibrations, flutter conditions on wings, and panels near the muzzles of ship or aircraft guns. Return