Damage characterization and numerical modeling of titanium matrix composites subjected to low-velocity impact for landing gear application

Titanium matrix composites (TMCs) is considered as a candidate material for landing gear structures of the aircraft, which requires the damage tolerant consideration. In order to investigate the damage behavior of SiC-fiber/titanium matrix composites subjected to foreign object impact, low-velocity impact experiments are conducted. Finite element modeling to simulate the damage behavior of TMCs is developed considering the plastic deformation and the damages. Numerical results of mechanical response and damage behavior are compared with experimental results. It is shown that the developed modeling can capture the impact damage of TMCs. In the last part of the present study, a prototype of TMC landing gear structure is fabricated. Impact damage behavior and residual compressive strength are evaluated, and the results are compared with numerical simulation.