Production and Tensile Testing of Rotationally Molded Hybrid Composite Tie Rods

Abstract

An innovative production processes for manufacturing rotationally symmetric FRP-metal components, such as drive shafts or tie rods, is the rotational molding process. In the course of this process, a dry fiber preform and metallic load-introduction elements are inserted into a two-piece mold and subsequently clamped into a spindle. The matrix is injected directly into the rotating mold. Due to the arising centrifugal forces, the preform is impregnated and the component cures under rotation. In comparison to conventional joining processes, such as adhesive bonding or bolt connections, the metallic components as well as the FRP part are intrinsically joined during the forming process. A downstream joining process is not required. The joint is based either on the adhesive property of the matrix system or on a form-fit geometry with undercuts. The paper addresses the production and tensile testing of tie rods. Different rod geometries and different surface treatments, including sandblasting, knurling, and arc spraying, are compared and evaluated.