Structural properties and testing of a composite banding used in high-speed rotors

The use of high-strength structural composite bandings is essential for high-speed rotors. In addition to bandings designed for maximum stiffness and strength, there is also a need for bandings that exhibit a controlled radial growth during operation. Controlling the radial growth rate of rotor bandings to match the growth of other rotor components maximizes the structural integrity of the rotor by minimizing reaction forces between parts during operation. This paper presents the structural material properties and strain-to-failure of a composite banding built with a nontraditional layup consisting of high-strength IM7 hoop filament windings and a combination of T700 tape laid at 0 degrees and +/- 45 degrees. The analysis and structural test results used to determine the strength of a composite banding with this layup is discussed.