Abstract
The flexural behaviour of compound beams in which unidirectional carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is externally bonded to extruded aluminium box-sections, is discussed. Simple transformed-section analysis and elastic buckling theory have been adapted to predict improvements in stiffness and strength with single-layer reinforcement. Close correlation between theory and experiment is observed and maximum gains in stiffness and ultimate strengths of 75% and 63%, respectively, are demonstrated with only a 7% weight increase. It is shown that the effects of the adhesive can be neglected when predicting the performance of the hybrid beam. Shape optimisation has been successfully applied to illustrate the potential of this technique for ‘new-build’ applications. Initial findings have produced weight savings of 33% in comparison to an all-aluminium optimised box-section.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.