Non-Destructive Testing of Carbon Fiber Crank Arms

Author(s) Information

Timothy Hoekstra, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Grant Pocklington, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Johnathan Simeroth, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

12-2016

Primary Advisor

Andrew Davol

Abstract/Summary

Carbon fiber components present unique challenges for detecting defects, damage, and fatigue. Nondestructive methods exist for testing and locating defects. However, most of these methods are expensive, not versatile enough for practical use on non-idealized parts, or both. Vibrothermography can be an affordable option and has shown promising results with thin rectangular panels. The goal of this senior project was to assess the feasibility of using vibrothermography to find defects in SRAM carbon fiber crank arms. Our team found vibrothermography to be a feasible method of non-destructive testing for carbon fiber crank arms, and this report discusses the development and implementation of the necessary theory, fixturing, and testing procedures.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/354