Comparative analysis of construction materials used for fastening elements of six-point safety belts in rally cars

Abstract

Safety belts are one of the most significant elements of car equipment classified as passive safety. This paper provides a comparative material analysis of critical components of a trusted manufacturer's six-point harness used in motorsports racing with commercially available imitation belts. Despite the FIA certification labels, the imitation belts are characterized by extremely poor quality in the selection of materials for components such as the snap hooks and the locking sleeves in the central fastening mechanism, posing a real hazard to unaware belt users. At the same time, the results of the research are also intended to build consumer awareness of the risks associated with the purchase of passive safety equipment from unreliable sources or/and at discount prices, which entails real threats to life and health.