DaTon: Innovative Fatigue and Damage Tolerance Methods for the Application of New Structural Concepts, 2M€)

The aim of this project was to assess low weight stiffened panels manufactured using new innovative and low cost techniques of High Speed Cutting (HSC), Laser Beam Welding (LBW) and Friction Stir Welding (FSW).  To achieve the aim we proposed to develop new damage tolerance assessment tools for the given Manufacturing techniques namely: High Speed Cutting (HSC), Laser Beam Welding (LBW) and Friction Stir Welding (FSW), all three leading to a type of structure which is close to an integral structural design. The project was coordinated by IFL TU Braunschweig and included Airbus Germany, DLR, NLR. Our team was involved in developing advanced computational methods for modelling residual stresses due to HSC, LBW and FSW manufacturing processes; and investigating cracks growth in stiffened aircraft panels manufactured using FSW under fatigue loading.