Experimental studies of creep of unidirectional composite material of composite overwrapped pressure vessel

Experimental studies of creep of a composite material of a composite overwrapped pressure vessel are presented. Composite material was an unidirectional tape based on IMS60 carbon fibers and epoxy resin. Creep tests were carried out at various loads and temperatures, taking into account the stress level in structure and measured glass transition temperature of the material. For testing, special equipment was used to install specimens in the grips of the testing machine. According to the test results, the creep curves were obtained. Creep curves according to Findlay's model are presented. For the stage of steady-state creep, the variation of the creep rate at different temperatures were determined, and the average value of the creep rate was calculated for all tested specimens. The results of the obtained data can be used in numerical models for predicting strains of a composite overwrapped pressure vessel under creep conditions.