Composite overwrapped pressure vessel
![](../I/m/Composite_pressure_vessel.jpg)
A composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) is a vessel consisting of a thin, non-structural liner wrapped with a structural fiber composite, designed to hold a fluid under pressure. The liner provides a barrier between the fluid and the composite, preventing leaks (which can occur through matrix microcracks which do not cause structural failure) and chemical degradation of the structure. In general, a protective shell is applied for protective shielding against impact damage.[1][2] The most commonly used composites are fiber reinforced polymers (FRP),[3] using carbon and kevlar fibers. The primary advantage of a COPV as compared to a similar sized metallic pressure vessel is lower weight, but this may be offset by the increased costs of manufacturing and certification.
![](../I/m/Altair_X248-A2_rocket_stage.jpg)
Testing
Various tests and inspections are performed on COPVs, including burst test, stress-rupture lifetime, and nondestructive evaluation.[4][5]
See also
- Gas cylinder
- Gas tank
- Hydrogen tank
- Graphite-Epoxy Motor
- Autofrettage, a process used in composite overwrapped pressure vessel manufacturing[6]
References
- ↑ Protective shells for composite overwrapped pressure vessels
- ↑ Metal-Lined Composite-Overwrapped Pressure Vessel
- ↑ A STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM FOR COMPOSITE PRESSURE VESSELS
- ↑ Vessel Testing
- ↑ Stress-rupture lifetime testing
- ↑ Pat B. McLaughlan; Scott C. Forth; Lorie R. Grimes-Ledesma (March 2011). "Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels, A Primer" (PDF). NASA.
External links
- Composite overwrapped pressure vessels (12Nov16: error 404)