Finite element analyses and experimental considerations of the deflection and failure behaviour of an asymmetric laminate composite bicycle handlebar

Abstract

Abstract

The deformation and first-ply failure load of an asymmetric laminate composite bicycle handlebar have been studied via both theoretical and experimental approaches. The composite bicycle handlebar tube is fabricated with outer main fibre layers and inner reinforcing fibre layers and is designed to predicted first-ply failure loads. Optimal angle-ply orientations of antisymmetric [θ-θ…]-s laminated tubes designed for maximum stiffness were investigated. A number of laminated composite bicycle handlebars were fabricated and subjected to static transverse bend testing. The first-ply failure loads of laminated composite bicycle handlebars tubes were determined using acoustic emission (AE). The failure modes of the bicycle handlebars were studied, and experimental results were used to verify the theoretical predictions. The experimental results have been proved to be efficient and effective in the theoretical prediction of first-ply failure loads of laminated composite bicycle handlebars.