Performance Enhancement Using Selective Reinforcement for Metallic Single- and Multi-Pin Loaded Holes

An analysis based investigation of aluminum with metal matrix composite selectively reinforced single - and multi -hole specimens was performed and their results compared with results from geom etrically comparable non -reinforced specimens. All reinforced specimens exhibited a significant increase in performance. Performance increase of up to 170 percent was achieved. Specimen failure modes were consistent with results from reinforced polymeri c matrix composite specimens. Localized reinforcement application (circular) proved as effective as a broader area (strip) reinforcement. Also, selective reinforcement is an excellent method of increasing the performance of multi -hole specimens.