Analysis of the mechanical behavior of a heat diffuser for electrical cells made of natural fiber-reinforced composite materials

Abstract

The automotive industry is currently moving towards electrification of its vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions. As a result, manufacturers are striving to offer electric vehicles that can provide the same benefits as internal combustion vehicles and, if necessary, improve them. The main component in the conformation of the electric cells adapted to the vehicles requires a distribution that allows them to be balanced on the chassis platform. In addition, a very important aspect to consider is the fact that the configuration of the cells must support proper ventilation so that they can dissipate the heat generated and optimize their operation. Therefore, in this paper it is proposed to provide an alternative that can support the ventilation of the cells, trying to take advantage of the momentum of the vehicle using a diffuser capable of driving the air into the cells and then out, which could generate greater stability to the temperatures generated in the cell and extend the life of the vehicle. A CAD model of the prototype will be designed based on modifications to the one currently used; this will be done to give rise to a degree of innovation in the development of production electric vehicles. On the other hand, it is considered to evaluate the functionality of such part simulating the basic conditions of resistance and deformation with the use of modeling software considering different types of materials: aluminum alloys; polymer matrix composites reinforced with fiberglass, carbon and reinforced with natural fibers, such as coconut fiber and jute