Hybrid Composites With Integrated Metallic Connectors: The Effects of Insert Geometry on the Mechanical Performance of Composite Structures
1Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, 73 Nanyang Drive, 637662, Singapore
2Institute of High Performance Computing, 1 Fusionopolis Way, 138632, Singapore
ABSTRACT
Carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic composites provide excellent specific mechanical properties, rapid processing solutions and recyclability, which are highly suitable for manufacturing lightweight automotive and aircraft components. In practical applications of the composites, there is a requirement for joining composite parts with metal parts or composite parts together. This is commonly conducted via mechanical fasteners or adhesive bonding. Our study proposes hybrid composite solutions in which metallic load introduction inserts are embedded into composite laminates during composite manufacturing process. Design of inserts and optimization of the inserts' geometry are carried out to understand their effects on pull-out strength of the insert in the hybrid structure. Pull-out testing is performed on hybrid structures with variation of insert parameters including base-plate diameter, insert position and insert materials. Failure progression of the composites under pull-out loading is also investigated. The results of the study suggest optimal insert geometries and provide a deep understanding on failure behavior of the hybrid system under loading.
Keywords: Thermoplastic composites, Hybrid structure, Joint design and characterization
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1Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, 73 Nanyang Drive, 637662, Singapore
2Institute of High Performance Computing, 1 Fusionopolis Way, 138632, Singapore
ABSTRACT
Carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic composites provide excellent specific mechanical properties, rapid processing solutions and recyclability, which are highly suitable for manufacturing lightweight automotive and aircraft components. In practical applications of the composites, there is a requirement for joining composite parts with metal parts or composite parts together. This is commonly conducted via mechanical fasteners or adhesive bonding. Our study proposes hybrid composite solutions in which metallic load introduction inserts are embedded into composite laminates during composite manufacturing process. Design of inserts and optimization of the inserts' geometry are carried out to understand their effects on pull-out strength of the insert in the hybrid structure. Pull-out testing is performed on hybrid structures with variation of insert parameters including base-plate diameter, insert position and insert materials. Failure progression of the composites under pull-out loading is also investigated. The results of the study suggest optimal insert geometries and provide a deep understanding on failure behavior of the hybrid system under loading.
Keywords: Thermoplastic composites, Hybrid structure, Joint design and characterization
Download PDF