INTERACTIVE CURVE FOR FATIGUE LIFE PREDICTION OF A COMFLEX™ ROTOR FLEXURE

An interactive fatigue curve for a laminated (Comflex™)* beam (0°8/±45°2)s, based on static compressive strength under multiple loadings for a bearingless rotor flexure application, has been developed. This curve is used to predict the maximum combined loads for infinite life of the Comflex™ flexure. A three dimensional finite element analysis, flexural static strength tests, and interlaminar shear strength tests of beams (0°8/±45°2)S, and flexural fatigue tests of uniaxial Comflex™ beams have been used to develop this curve.