Strength prediction in multi-pin joints from equivalent material properties in composite laminates

The present work aims to predict failure in composite laminate joints from equivalent material properties. Three- and four-pin joints made of glass fiber/epoxy with [45°/- 45°/0̄°]s and [0°/90°/0̄°]s lay up are considered. A 3D finite element analysis is performed to study the propagation of damage and to predict failure load. Progressive damage analysis is carried out using von-Mises stress as the failure when the stress exceeds the laminate strength. Failure in three- and four-pin joints by equivalent material properties predicted the strength of the joint close to the experimental values with a degradation factor of 0.12.