Presented here are results from various tests conducted with fiber optic strain sensors embedded within composite-overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs). This work highlights the ability of fiber optic strain sensors to be reliably embedded in COPVs for monitoring of the manufacturing process, as well as damage and overall structural health throughout the life of the component.

High resolution fiber optic strain sensing is used to monitor distributed strain in composite-overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) throughout the manufacturing process and subsequent qualification testing. Commercially-available, telecommunications-grade optical fiber was embedded within the carbon-fiber overwrap. The amplitude and phase of the light reflected from the fibers are measured using a commercial OFDR. Changes in the amplitude and phase of the backscattered light are used to determine the strain along the entire length of the fiber with centimeter spatial resolution. Distributed strain measurements over the entire COPV provide insight into the manufacturing process and embedded damage-detection capabilities

M.T. Reaves, D.R. Metrey, M.A. Castellucci. Embedded Fiber Optic Sensing in Composite-Overwrapped Pressure Vessels. SAMPE 2013